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Sub for Sub

What is a sub for sub on YouTube?

Sub for sub is a method where YouTube creators agree to subscribe to another creator's channel in exchange for a subscription back to their own channel. The primary goal is to artificially boost subscriber numbers without a genuine interest in the content of the subscribed channel.

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Sub for sub is also known as:

  • Subscription for subscription

  • Sub4sub

Why is sub for sub bad on YouTube?

There are a number of reasons why you shouldn't participate in fraudulent subscriber growth practices, including sub for sub. Here are a few reasons:

  • Inauthentic Growth: Channels grown through Sub for Sub often lack genuine engagement, which means fewer views, comments, likes, and shares.

  • Violation of Community Guidelines: Engaging in Sub for Sub violates YouTube's Community Guidelines, specifically under the "Spam, deceptive practices, & scams policies."

  • Risk of Termination: YouTube can issue strikes against channels that violate its policies. Accumulating strikes can lead to the channel's termination.

  • No Genuine Value: Even if a channel gains subscribers through this method, these subscribers are unlikely to engage with the content, leading to a lack of real growth and reduced ad revenue.

Is it legal to use sub for sub on YouTube?

While "Sub for Sub" isn't illegal in a judicial sense, it is prohibited by YouTube's internal policies and Community Guidelines. Engaging in such practices can lead to penalties (like shadow banning), strikes, or even channel termination.

Does sub for sub exist on other social media platforms?

Yes, similar practices exist on various social media platforms, where users exchange likes, follows, shares, etc., in an effort to boost their numbers. For instance, on platforms like Instagram and X, you might come across "Follow for Follow" or "Like for Like" practices.

Additional subscriber practices that you should avoid

Here are other practices that you should avoid in order to keep your channel in good standing with YouTube:

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  1. Purchasing Subscribers: Buying subscribers from third-party websites is a violation of many platform's terms of service.

  2. Automated Boosting: Using bots or automated systems to artificially increase views, likes, or comments.

  3. Fake Accounts: Creating multiple accounts to subscribe or interact with your main account.

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