Purchasing a YouTube channel can be an enticing way to start fresh with a pre-built audience, but it also brings serious security concerns. The process of transferring ownership, securing your account, and making sure you don’t lose control over your channel or its content can be complex. Remember, you should also make sure your email is protected. Check out the article “How to Secure Your Email?” for practical tips.
Step 1: Set Your Email as Manager First
As a precaution, it’s recommended that you first set your own email as the Manager of the YouTube channel before making any other changes. This ensures that, even if something goes wrong during the transfer of ownership, you will still have access to all settings and the channel’s content.
How to do it:
First of all, please secure your email and make sure it’s set up on your YouTube channel within the next 24 hours. Do not make all changes at once, and ensure your email is properly configured first.
- Go to YouTube Studio > Settings > Permissions.
- Add your email as the Manager.
Ensure that the primary owner still has access to all settings, but you, as Manager, will have access to all critical information.
This step should be done before making any other changes to the account to avoid losing control of the channel or facing potential security issues.
Step 2: Secure the YouTube Channel Itself
Once your Google account is secure, it’s time to focus on securing your actual YouTube channel. A YouTube channel can easily become vulnerable if you don’t properly manage its permissions and security settings.
Actions:
- Enable YouTube’s 2-Step Verification.
YouTube uses the Google account’s 2-step verification settings, so as long as you’ve set it up for your Google account, it applies to YouTube as well. This will prevent unauthorized logins, but ensure it’s set up properly. - Check Channel Branding and Email Settings
Go to YouTube Studio > Settings > Channel > Advanced Settings, and ensure your YouTube email, name, and associated details are correctly updated. Change the email linked to the account to one that only you control. Avoid keeping the old owner’s email on the account, as they could still receive security notifications. - Review Connected Social Accounts
Many YouTube channels link to social media accounts such as Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Check these connections and ensure only your own accounts are linked. If the previous owner had access to any social media, remove their access.
Step 3: Keep Your New Channel Safe from Phishing and Scams
Once you’ve secured your channel, the next challenge is maintaining its security over time. One of the biggest risks to YouTube accounts comes from phishing and scams, especially when a channel has a large audience.
Actions:
- Beware of Phishing Emails
Never click on suspicious links in emails, even if they look like they’re from YouTube. Google will never ask for your password or verification codes via email. If you ever receive an email about a supposed issue with your channel, go directly to YouTube via a trusted browser to investigate. - Verify Brand Deals Carefully
If you’re working with brands or advertisers, verify any partnership or sponsorship offers through official channels. Scammers often impersonate well-known brands to steal account credentials or hijack channels. - Monitor Your Channel’s Activity Regularly
Regularly check your YouTube account for any suspicious activity, such as sudden changes in video views, monetization settings, or new uploads you didn’t authorize. You can do this by visiting the YouTube Studio > Analytics section.
Step 4: Final Steps and Long-Term Protection
Now that your YouTube channel is secured, take a few extra steps to ensure its ongoing protection and to avoid potential issues in the future.
Actions:
- Check for Active Sessions
Go to YouTube Studio > Settings > Account and look for any unauthorized devices or sessions. Log out of any unfamiliar sessions immediately. - Keep Software Updated
Always keep your operating system, browser, and YouTube app updated to the latest versions. Regular updates ensure that you’re protected from the latest security vulnerabilities. - Review Your Security Settings Periodically
Security isn’t a one-time task. Make it a habit to periodically review your Google account security, YouTube channel permissions, and connected social accounts. Update your passwords and recovery information as necessary.
Protect Your YouTube Investment
When you buy a YouTube channel, you’re not just buying the content; you’re buying a valuable asset that requires constant vigilance. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risks and ensure the channel remains secure for years to come. Take your time during the transition, and don’t rush into making changes until everything is set up properly.
Remember: securing your YouTube channel is an ongoing process. Stay proactive about monitoring, updating, and backing up your content, and you’ll enjoy a smooth experience with your new YouTube venture.