Practical Tips to Keep Your Music Safe

Protecting your output is key in an era where technology both empowers and endangers musical creation. Many people in the industry are struggling, and the risks for artists have grown with the rise of streaming, cyber breaches, and now AI.

Leaked or improperly credited music can emerge all too easily. But there are still ways to protect your files from theft or loss while keeping control. We explore some practical tips for stopping leaks, copyrighting, and more.

Prevent Leaks

The risk of leaks is ever-present in today's digital age, but you can use various strategies to counter them. Encrypting your files before sharing them is smart, for example. You should also set strict access rules and permissions on unreleased tracks. Furthermore, watermarks deter leaks by making it easier to trace their origin.

Remember to follow basic cybersecurity principles, too – especially on the devices storing your creations. That means using strong passwords and updating your software regularly.

If you use internet-based software for recording or production, download a virtual private network (VPN) to keep hackers at bay. A VPN sends all your traffic through an encrypted tunnel, shielding it from prying eyes. This software is available on most devices, too.

Agree on Ownership with Collaborators

Collaborating with other artists can open new opportunities, yet it also poses a risk of ownership disputes. Agreeing on your rights from the start will prevent fallouts later down the line. 

Clear written agreements detailing every party's contribution, rights, and royalties are essential. Legal mediation can help you find solutions without hurting your creative partnerships when there is a dispute.

Copyright Your Music

Copyrighting your music is a fundamental step in protecting your creations. It stops people from copying, distributing, or even performing them without your approval.

The good news is that copyright protection occurs automatically in the UK when you create something, such as a music recording. You don't need to go through any registration. It's worth keeping records of everything you create and when, though.

Complete Regular Backups

Another valuable record to keep is a backup of your music. This ensures you have a fallback in the case of data loss. 

Using both cloud-based services and physical storage devices gives you a comprehensive safety net. Plus, having archives in multiple formats guarantees accessibility as technology evolves.

Adopt a Multi-Faceted Approach

The digital age offers unprecedented opportunities and threats for musicians. You can safeguard your creations against these risks by adopting the strategies above. In the meantime, Britain's music and legal industries must continue evolving to protect creator rights – particularly with the rise of AI.