Is It Legal to Download Videos From Social Media?

What's generally fine, what isn't, and how to respect creators when you save a clip.

This isn't legal advice, and laws differ between countries — but some principles apply almost everywhere.

Usually fine

• Downloading your own videos to back them up or repost them elsewhere.
• Saving content the creator has clearly allowed (for example Creative Commons or public-domain clips).
• Keeping a private copy to watch offline, where your local law allows personal copies.

Not okay

• Re-uploading someone else's video as your own, or removing credit.
• Using clips in ads or paid products without a licence.
• Downloading films, TV shows or paid courses.

Platform rules

Most platforms' terms say content should be viewed inside their apps. Breaking those terms usually isn't a crime, but it can get your account restricted.

TipSimple rule: if it isn't yours, keep it private — or ask the creator first.