CODE 20 FAQs

How does CODE 20 work?

The process is simple; when you witness something newsworthy happening, whip out your camera phone and capture it on video (or audio, photos, interview, documents, whatever). Come to CODE 20 and upload the media. When that media airs on a professional TV news source, you get credit and get paid.

I’m new. What should I do first?

Start by registering with CODE 20. We will ask you to set up an account with CODE 20, basic contact information, how you prefer to be paid should your media air on a professional news source, and social media handles in case you want to be contacted when news is happening in your area so you can shoot it. If you have a video (or audio, photo, interview, document, whatever) you want to upload, you can do so after registering with CODE 20.

Can I upload video from my camera phone? Tablet? iPad?

CODE 20 is putting the finishing touches on our Mobile app. Please check back for details.

How will I get paid?

If your uploaded media airs on a professional news service, CODE 20 will pay you through your choice of PayPal, Western Union, or check by mail.

What do you mean by “professional news service”?

News has gotten easier to cover since the advent of blogs, news aggregators, and other direct-to-internet methods. To qualify for payment, professional news services include major television networks, local news stations and affiliates, cable news, and major internet news providers. Sorry, blogs, news aggregators, social media outlets, and search engines do not count. For a complete definition of payment qualifications, read the CODE 20 Terms of Service.

How will I know if my media has aired on TV?

CODE 20 will alert you via email when the news you uploaded has been selected. You will also be notified of where, when, and which news source is airing your media so you can tell your friends to tune in.

Why hasn’t my video aired?

CODE 20 receives many uploads about a wide range of news topics. Although there is no guarantee that your upload will air, CODE 20 does not get paid unless you do. Know that we are working very hard to air as many media clips as possible.

What can I do to increase my chances of airing on TV?

Practice makes perfect, so start by shooting video of everyday situations to get used to how it feels. Treat your camera phone like a still camera making sure the important parts are in the shot. Avoid talking and get as close to the audio so that it is clear. If you’re in a dark area, move to a vantage point where the lighting is on the news you’re capturing. Always zoom slow, hold the shot steady, and keep your battery charged at all times.

Can I upload someone else’s video?

CODE 20 takes copyright very seriously. If you did not create, shoot, or capture the media yourself, do not upload it to CODE20. For more information on copyright, read the CODE 20 Terms of Service.

I think someone has uploaded my video? What can I do?

If you feel that someone has violated your copyright, please contact CODE 20 via email. Provide your contact information, background, and proof of ownership. CODE 20 will investigate the disputed media and contact you directly.

I have a video to upload but want to remain anonymous. Can I still work with CODE 20?

Privacy is of utmost importance to CODE 20. Simply email CODE 20 and let us know about your situation. We will be happy to discuss your options offline. For more information, read the CODE 20 Privacy Policy.

What is CODE 20?

CODE 20 is a California radio signal law enforcement agencies use to classify an incident as newsworthy and to notify the media.

You still haven’t answered my question.

No problem. Simply email CODE 20 with your question. We will either respond to you individually or post the question and answer here to help everyone.