When a store detects artificial streaming, they notify us directly. Each store handles artificial streams differently but in general they:
Notify us of the tracks that have been identified to have had Artificial Streaming Activity
Provide us with a report showing the artificial streaming activity. This can sometimes include the amount of artificial streams, any fees being applied and if this is a recurring issue.
Inform us whether the track(s) will remain on the platform or not.
We take these reports seriously and follow a clear process to determine the appropriate action.
🧭 Our process:
Initial Review
We review the flagged track(s) and the claim from store. If there’s evidence of artificial activity, we move forward.
Internal Investigation
We check our logs, delivery records, and any relevant metadata to confirm the source of the issue. This may also include checking daily analytics reports from the store.
Responsible Party Contacted
If the track was submitted by a client and we determine artificial streaming occurred, we reach out directly to that client to explain the situation.
Charge Applied Only to Responsible Client
We pass on any fees charge only to the artist or label responsible for the flagged track(s). No other artists are impacted.
Support and Education
We'll provide you with a report outlining the activity deemed to be artificial by the store where possible. We'll also include relevant help articles and guides so you can better understand the situation.
📌 Important Clarifications:
Fees aren't being charged to you directly. Stores will charge Spare Music as your distribution, we just pass these along to the artist or label responsible for the activity.
We don't generalize these costs - if you didn't have any artificial streams, you won't be charged - ever.
If your release is removed from stores for artificial activity, we'll tell you exactly what happened and provide you with the necessary resources.