Facebook introduces mobile content protection tool for creators

New Delhi: Facebook is rolling out a new mobile-based content protection feature designed to help creators safeguard their original reels across Facebook and Instagram. 

The tool, now available within the Professional Dashboard on the Facebook app, automatically protects eligible reels and notifies creators when matches are detected on either platform.

The feature allows creators to enrol once, after which all original reels posted to Facebook are protected automatically. Older reels can also be added manually. Facebook says the system scans for full or partial matches using the same underlying technology as Meta’s Rights Manager but is built specifically for mobile use.

When a match is found, creators receive a notification with details such as the other account’s follower count and the performance of the matching reel. They can then choose one of three responses through the dashboard: track, block or release. 

Tracking keeps the matched reel visible while allowing creators to monitor its performance, and some matches on Facebook can be labelled with attribution. Blocking hides the content on Facebook and Instagram but does not trigger disciplinary action for the other account. Releasing removes the match from the dashboard and ends monitoring.

Creators may also add specific accounts to an allow-list to prevent false flags when they have authorised the use of their work. Facebook notes that processes are in place to resolve disputes when more than one account attempts to protect the same content, including the option to submit a copyright takedown request.

Automatic access is currently available to creators in the Facebook Content Monetisation programme who meet integrity and originality requirements, and is being expanded to those already using Rights Manager. 

Eligible users will see notifications in their Feed and in the Professional Dashboard, and can check for access by navigating to the Professional Dashboard, selecting Content, and then choosing Content Protection.

Facebook advises creators to post reels directly to Facebook, or use the Share to Facebook option from Instagram, to ensure they fall under the protection system. It also notes that misuse of the feature, such as repeatedly claiming content not owned by the user, may result in restrictions or loss of access.