Legal
Artificial Streaming & Fraud Policy
The Octodistro · Last Updated: February 26, 2025
The Octodistro maintains a strict policy against artificial streaming and any activity that manipulates digital music consumption metrics. Artificial streaming harms artists, distributors, and digital platforms. We actively monitor and investigate suspicious activity to maintain the integrity of our distribution network.
1. What is Artificial Streaming
Artificial streaming includes any attempt to manipulate streaming numbers, chart positions, or royalties through illegitimate means. This includes but is not limited to:
- Purchasing fake streams or followers
- Using bots or automated streaming services
- Participating in stream farms
- Pay-for-playlist schemes promising guaranteed streams
- Incentivizing listeners to repeatedly stream content for payment or rewards
- Any service claiming to guarantee streams, chart placement, or viral success
Such practices violate the policies of major streaming services including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Amazon Music.
2. Detection of Fraudulent Activity
Octodistro monitors distribution activity using various signals including:
- Platform reports
- Unusual streaming patterns
- Traffic anomalies
- Listener location inconsistencies
- Artificial playlist networks
We may also receive fraud alerts directly from digital platforms.
3. Consequences of Artificial Streaming
If artificial streaming is detected, Octodistro may take the following actions:
- Immediate removal of the release from digital platforms
- Withholding of royalties associated with fraudulent activity
- Suspension or termination of the user account
- Blocking future uploads
In severe cases, we may also report fraudulent activity to digital platforms.
4. Artist Responsibility
Artists and rights holders are responsible for ensuring that any promotional services they use comply with platform rules. If a third-party marketing service generates artificial streams, the artist may still be held responsible. Artists should avoid any services that promise:
- Guaranteed streams
- Guaranteed playlist placements
- Rapid growth through automated systems
5. Protecting Your Music
Artists should only promote their music using legitimate marketing strategies such as:
- Social media promotion
- Advertising campaigns
- Organic playlist pitching
- Fan engagement