CapCut’s New Terms Give App Unrestricted Rights to Users’ Content
CapCut, the popular video editing app used by Nigerian skit makers, influencers and entrepreneurs, has updated its Terms of Service — and the changes may cost users control over their content.
The app, owned by Chinese tech giant ByteDance (also the parent company of TikTok), quietly rolled out its new terms on June 12, 2025.
Under the revised policy, any video, photo, or sound uploaded to CapCut gives the company extensive and permanent rights to use that content.
CapCut can now use your uploads — including videos and music — in any form, anywhere in the world, forever, without seeking your permission or paying you. It may even authorise others to do the same.
The terms clearly state that users grant CapCut and its partners “an unconditional, irrevocable, non-exclusive, royalty-free, fully transferable (including sub-licensable), perpetual, worldwide license” to do everything from modifying and distributing your content to using it for adverts or promotions.
Additionally, all uploaded content is considered non-confidential. CapCut warns users not to upload sensitive or private information, as the app has the right to share or use it freely. It also disclaims any responsibility for keeping such data secure.
Creators who use music are also cautioned. If you don’t have full rights to a sound or beat, especially the underlying musical work, you’re not allowed to post it on CapCut.
The platform says users are fully responsible for securing all necessary permissions.
“You will be liable to us and indemnify us for any breach,” the terms state, meaning any legal trouble over content ownership or copyright falls on the user.
Users are also expected to give up the right to complain about how their content is used. CapCut says you waive the right to inspect or approve any marketing that includes your content and also give up any moral rights over how it is portrayed.
To make matters worse, CapCut reserves the right to delete or remove any user content at its discretion — without warning or explanation.
For Nigerian users who rely on the app for creative work or business, this update could mean unknowingly surrendering key rights.
Experts advise backing up important projects elsewhere and reviewing the full policy before continuing with the platform.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
