Artificial streaming, also known as streaming fraud, occurs when streams do not reflect genuine user listening intent. This includes any attempt to manipulate DSPs by using automated processes. Artificial streams, whether they come from bots, scripts, or streaming farms, or genuine fans, are used to falsely inflate the number of streams on a track or album to create the illusion of success.

Some people intentionally abuse the streaming system for financial gain. For legitimate artists, however, issues with artificial streams often involve engaging with a service that offers promotional services (increased streams, followers, downloads, favorable playlist placements, and exposure) in exchange for a fee. Services who guarantee to provide a surge in genuine streams and fans usually use bots to repeatedly stream the release and/or place it in user-generated playlists with fake listeners.

The problem with artificial streaming is that it diverts royalties away from genuine artists, and manipulates streaming data unfavorably. This can make it more difficult for genuine artists to build a following or gain momentum in their careers.

As a result, artificial streaming is taken very seriously by all distributors, including Amuse, and by all DSPs.

Please check out Spotify’s article on artificial streaming for more information.