Crumbl Cookies, a rapidly expanding dessert chain known for its viral social media presence, is currently embroiled in a significant legal dispute with Warner Music Group (WMG).

The lawsuit, filed in April 2025 in a Utah federal court, alleges that Crumbl used at least 159 copyrighted songs in its TikTok and Instagram advertisements without obtaining the necessary licenses. This case underscores the growing tension between social media marketing strategies and intellectual property rights in the digital age.

The Allegations

Warner Music Group claims that Crumbl incorporated popular tracks from artists such as Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Lizzo, and Bruno Mars into its promotional videos. These videos were shared on Crumbl’s TikTok and Instagram accounts, which boast millions of followers. WMG contends that Crumbl’s use of these songs was unauthorized and constitutes copyright infringement. The lawsuit seeks statutory damages exceeding $20 million, citing that each instance of infringement could result in penalties of up to $150,000.

Legal and Industry Implications

This lawsuit highlights a critical issue in digital marketing: the distinction between personal and commercial use of copyrighted music on social media platforms. While platforms like TikTok and Instagram offer users access to a vast library of music for personal content, these licenses do not extend to commercial use by businesses. Crumbl’s case is part of a broader trend where companies have faced legal challenges for using copyrighted music in their social media advertisements without proper licensing. For instance, beauty brand OFRA Cosmetics was recently sued by Sony Music for similar violations, with potential liabilities reaching up to $49 million. (80% of Beauty Brands Could Be Violating Music Copyright on TikTok & Instagram | Global Cosmetic Industry)

Best Practices for Brands

To mitigate the risk of copyright infringement, businesses should adhere to the following best practices:

• Obtain Proper Licenses: Ensure that any music used in promotional content is licensed for commercial use.
• Utilize Platform-Specific Libraries: Leverage music libraries provided by social media platforms that are specifically curated for commercial use.
• Consult Legal Experts: Work with legal professionals to navigate the complexities of copyright law and ensure compliance.

By following these guidelines, companies can protect themselves from potential legal disputes and uphold the integrity of their marketing efforts.

Conclusion

The ongoing lawsuit between Crumbl Cookies and Warner Music Group serves as a cautionary tale for businesses leveraging social media for marketing purposes. It underscores the importance of understanding and respecting intellectual property rights in the digital landscape. As social media continues to play a pivotal role in brand promotion, companies must prioritize legal compliance to avoid costly legal battles and reputational damage.