Reels Trends in Germany & Urheberrecht: Avoiding Costly Legal Fines

Using trending sounds in Reels can boost your sales and engagement, but it comes with serious legal risks you might not expect. Many creators and businesses use popular audio clips to promote their services or products, thinking it’s harmless or covered under fair use. The reality is different. Copyright holders are actively monitoring these uses, and fines can reach up to one and a half thousand euros for unauthorized use. This post explains the legal landscape around using trending sounds in Reels, especially in Germany, and offers practical advice to avoid costly penalties.

Why Using Trending Sounds Without Permission Is Risky

Many users believe that using popular sounds in Reels is safe because these sounds are widely available on social media platforms. However, these sounds are protected by copyright laws. When you use a trending sound to advertise your services or sell goods without the consent of the label or author, you risk:

• Fines up to 1,500 euros per infringement

• Additional costs for content creation and freelancer fees

• Account suspension or video deletion by platform algorithms

• Legal action from copyright holders or collecting societies like GEMA

  
  

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok operate on leased digital land controlled by their algorithms and copyright enforcement policies. They often remove content or block accounts that violate copyright rules. This means your marketing efforts can be wiped out overnight if you don’t comply.

Understanding Copyright and Advertising Rules in Germany

Germany has strict rules about advertising and copyright. The legal framework includes:

• Medienstaatsvertrag (Media State Treaty)

• UWG (Unfair Competition Act)

• Numerous court decisions that clarify how advertising must be labeled

  
  

These laws require clear disclosure when content is promotional. Many creators think that adding the label "Werbung" (advertising) is only necessary if they receive payment from brands. But this is not always true.

If you promote your own services or products, you still need to follow advertising rules. Your account should look professional and include:

• A legally compliant imprint (Impressum) accessible within two clicks

• Proper labeling of promotional content, even for self-promotion

  
  

Why Your Website Is Your Safest Platform

Social media profiles often lack fields for legal documents like an imprint. Placing these documents in profile descriptions or using link services like Linktree can raise legal questions because they provide indirect access.

The safest way to comply is to have a professional website with:

• A clear link in your social media profile header

• A legally correct imprint in the website footer

  
  

This setup ensures you meet German legal requirements and avoid fines or legal challenges.

Practical Steps to Protect Yourself

To avoid legal trouble when using trending sounds in Reels or promoting your services, follow these steps:

• Obtain permission or licenses for any music or sounds you use in your videos

• Use royalty-free or licensed music libraries designed for commercial use

• Clearly label promotional content with "Werbung" or similar disclosures

• Create a professional website with a proper imprint and link it in your profiles

• Avoid relying solely on social media platforms for legal compliance

• Consult a legal expert if you are unsure about your obligations

  
  

Examples of Legal Issues with Trending Sounds

Consider a freelancer who paid another freelancer to create a Reel using a trending sound without securing the rights. If the sound’s copyright holder discovers this, the freelancer could face:

• A fine of 1,500 euros or more

• Additional claims for damages and legal fees

• Removal of the video and possible account restrictions

  
  

This example shows how ignoring copyright rules can lead to unexpected costs and damage your reputation.

Final Thoughts on Using Trending Sounds for Sales

Using trending sounds in Reels can be tempting for quick sales boosts, but the legal risks are significant. Copyright holders and platforms enforce rules strictly, especially in Germany. To protect your business and avoid fines:

• Always secure rights to sounds before using them

• Follow advertising labeling rules carefully

• Use your own website to provide legal transparency

  
  

Taking these steps helps you build a sustainable online presence without risking costly penalties. Start by reviewing your current content and making sure your legal documents and disclosures are in place. This way, you can focus on growing your sales with confidence.