IFPI launches anti-fraud standards for distributors as DistroKid stays off list

Twenty-four music companies and trade groups have signed new anti-fraud rules for getting songs onto streaming services. One of the largest distributors is not on the list.

The Streaming Integrity Initiative was announced on 14 September by IFPI, the global organisation for the recorded music industry. It sets out five baseline practices for distributors, the companies that place tracks on services such as Spotify and Apple Music on behalf of artists and labels, according to IFPI.

IFPI describes distributors as a key entry point in the context of streaming fraud. The practices include verification of rights ownership. They also cover detecting, investigating and mitigating suspected fraud.

The signatories include the three major music groups — Universal Music Group, Sony Music Group and Warner Music Group — alongside HYBE and the independent rights organisation Merlin.

Other names on the list include Absolute Label Services, Ditto Music, RouteNote, Secretly Distribution, Symphonic and Too Lost. Supporters also listed by IFPI include ADA, AWAL, FUGA, The Orchard and Virgin Music Group, plus trade bodies IMPALA and WIN.

CD Baby has signed. The distributor became part of Universal Music Group following UMG’s acquisition of Downtown Music Holdings earlier this year, as reported by Music Business Worldwide.

DistroKid has not signed. That absence is notable. The company says it distributes roughly 40% of all new music in the world for more than 4 million artists.

TuneCore, Believe and UnitedMasters had also not signed at the time of publication.

What makes this stand out is the focus on the upload stage. For fans, this means the checks happen before a track reaches a playlist. IFPI says the commitment is intended to protect artists, songwriters and fans.

IFPI said it had invited music distribution services to join the commitment. The September action remains open to further signatories.