Videos you posted years ago can resurface at awkward moments: during a job search, a launch or simply when someone searches your name. If they are on a channel you own, you have full control, as long as you can sign in.
If you can sign in
From YouTube Studio you can choose, video by video:
- Delete: removes the video permanently
- Private: hides it from everyone except you and people you invite
- Unlisted: hides it from search and your channel, but anyone with the link can still watch
Private is a good choice if you may want the video later. Delete is right if you are sure.
If you lost access to the account
Google’s account recovery process lets you prove an account is yours, using details such as previous passwords, recovery email addresses or phone numbers. Gather whatever you remember before you start.
If a former employee or agency created the channel
Many business channels are Brand Accounts, which can have several owners and managers. A current owner can transfer ownership to the right person. If the person who set it up has left, ask them to transfer ownership, and document that the channel belongs to your organisation in case you need help from Google.
Afterwards
Deleted videos can remain in Google search for a while. Use Google’s outdated content tool to request a refresh, as explained in our guide on removing YouTube videos from Google search.
Need help regaining access or deciding what to remove? Our channel cleanup service walks you through it.