Criteo strives to maintain a trusted advertising ecosystem aligned with the marketing goals and the brand requirements of our buyers and sellers alike. Advertising for streaming sites or platforms offering downloadable copyrighted content may be permitted only in certain countries and under specific conditions, with the express approval of Criteo.

This category includes sites or services that provide streaming, downloading, or access to music, movies, TV shows, sports, books, eBooks, comics, photos, video games, software, or other copyrighted creative works.

Because copyright laws protect all creative works—including films, songs, books, videos, and software—advertisers must demonstrate that they legally own or have permission to use the content they distribute.

Prohibited content includes, but is not limited to:

1. Sites facilitating or associated with copyright infringement

Peer-to-peer file-sharing platforms (e.g., torrents, cyberlockers, P2P networks).
Sites whose primary purpose is to distribute or exchange copyrighted content without authorization.
Sites that offer copyrighted movies, TV shows, comics, books, music, video games, or software “for free” when they do not demonstrably hold rights to the works.
Warez sites or piracy-associated networks.
Platforms that aggregate unlicensed streams or host links to unlicensed content.

2. Streaming or downloading services lacking proper rights

Platforms that cannot demonstrate rights from copyright owners (e.g., film studios, distributors, publishers, labels).
Streaming services that rely on public-domain claims without a clear indication that the content is truly in the public domain.
Sites providing subtitles, translations, or derivative works without permission from rights holders.

3. Sites lacking basic transparency

Platforms that do not provide clear contact information (physical address, email, or customer-support details).
Sites explicitly stating or implying that their content is pirated or unauthorised.

General requirements for permitted advertising

Advertising for streaming or downloadable content may be permitted only when the advertiser can clearly demonstrate the lawful distribution of content and comply with all creative and operational safeguards.

1. Legally authorised content only

Advertisers must confirm that all streamed or downloadable content is properly licensed or does not require licensing (e.g., verified public-domain works). Criteo may request evidence of authorisation when applicable.

2. Creative restrictions

Ads must not reveal or reference specific content a user has viewed, accessed, streamed, or downloaded.
Creative must avoid language or visuals that imply access to unauthorised or pirated content.
Use of static ads is required where permitted.

3. Accuracy and brand integrity

Ads must be factual and may not suggest unlicensed access, free piracy-based models, or content obtained through questionable means.
Messaging should emphasise legitimacy and transparency (if relevant).

4. Respect for user trust and copyright protections

Advertising must not enable or encourage copyright infringement.
Advertisers are responsible for ensuring they operate in compliance with all applicable copyright and intellectual property regulations.

Criteo reserves the right to modify or update these policies at any time. Any changes will be reflected on this page and within Criteo’s Advertising Guidelines, and we may notify advertising clients of any material updates.

Advertising guidelines - miscellaneous