SoundCloud and Spotify are cracking down on anyone who may be attempting to game the system with artificial or fraudulent streaming. We want to ensure that artists who use our platforms to distribute or monetize their content are paid for streams from their fans, as well as help you avoid penalties associated with artificial streaming. 

Here's what you need to know: 

Playlist placement can’t be bought. You can’t buy your way onto a SoundCloud, Spotify, or any other platform’s playlist. Any service that claims otherwise should be treated with extreme caution.

Paid promotion services can violate platform rules. You may see ads promising playlist placements or guaranteed streams, but using these services goes against the terms of service for SoundCloud and other streaming platforms. Always research any music promotion service before working with them.

Fake streams put your music at risk. Streaming platforms actively detect and remove illegitimate plays. If SoundCloud or another platform finds that you or a service you’ve used have generated fake streams, your entire catalog could be taken down. Don’t risk it.

Fraudulent activity can lead to fees and takedowns. Spotify now charges distributors, including SoundCloud for Artists, a fee for each track flagged for artificial streams. While we work to protect legitimate artists from these costs, tracks found to have artificial activity may be removed, and related fees may reduce your payouts.

Should you have any questions, Spotify has provided additional resources about what artificial streaming is and what the consequences are when they detect it:

What Is Artificial Streaming? The Latest Episode of The Game Plan Explains

Artificial streaming and paid 3rd-party services that guarantee streams

Spotify for Artists Playlist Reporter