Recognition.

Anti-Fraud Policy

Last Updated: 24 September 2024

1. Policy Overview

Recognition Group (Pty) Ltd. maintains a zero-tolerance policy against fraudulent activity related to music distribution, streaming, or royalty collection. This policy protects artists, labels, and digital service providers (DSPs) from artificial manipulation, ensuring fair compensation and industry integrity.

Scope: Applies to all artists, labels, and users of Recognition Group’s distribution and publishing services.

2. Prohibited Activities

Fraud includes, but is not limited to:
Stream Manipulation:

  • Using bots, scripts, or automated tools to inflate streams/plays.
  • Paying for artificial plays (e.g., click farms, paid playlists).
  • Encouraging “stream stuffing” (e.g., looping tracks unnaturally).

Metadata Abuse:

  • Misrepresenting track ownership, artist names, or contributors.
  • Keyword stuffing (e.g., falsely tagging unrelated artists).

Royalty Fraud:

  • Submitting fake or unlicensed music.
  • Concealing third-party copyrights.
  • Reselling/transferring ISRCs/UPCs without authorization.

Impersonation:

  • Distributing music under another artist’s name without permission.

3. Detection & Enforcement

How We Identify Fraud

  • Algorithmic Monitoring: DSPs (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.) flag suspicious activity.
  • Manual Audits: We review irregular streaming patterns (e.g., 1,000 plays from one IP address).
  • Third-Party Reports: DSPs or rights holders may report violations.

Penalties for Violations

  • First Offense:
    • Written warning + withheld royalties pending investigation.
    • Removal of fraudulent streams from royalty calculations.
  • Repeat Offenses:
    • Permanent termination of your Recognition Group account.
    • Forfeiture of unpaid royalties.
    • Legal action (if applicable under South African law).

4. Artist Responsibilities

  • Monitor Your Music: Report suspicious activity (e.g., sudden spikes from unknown regions) within 48 hours to support@recognitiongroup.co.za.
  • Provide Accurate Data: Ensure metadata (artist names, splits) is truthful.
  • No “Pay-for-Play” Schemes: Avoid third-party services promising artificial streams.

5. Reporting Fraud

To report suspected fraud:

  1. Email: support@recognitiongroup.co.za with:
    • Artist/label name.
    • Suspicious tracks/links.
    • Evidence (screenshots, analytics).
  2. Investigation: We’ll review and respond within 7 business days.

6. Transparency & Appeals

7. Governing Law

This policy adheres to:

  • South African Copyright Law.
  • DSP Terms (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.).

By using Recognition Group’s services, you agree to this policy.
Questions? Contact support@recognitiongroup.co.za.