> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://developers.oxylabs.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://developers.oxylabs.io/help-center/most-popular-questions/is-web-scraping-legal.md). # Is web scraping legal? Explore the legality of web scraping, key checks before collecting public data, and when to consult a legal advisor. Web scraping is entirely legal when it is done without breaching any laws regarding the source targets or data itself. However, we highly encourage you to read a [dedicated article](https://oxylabs.io/blog/is-web-scraping-legal) that goes into more depth on the topic and consult your legal advisor before conducting any scraping projects to avoid risks. ### **Scraping video data from YouTube** The legality of scraping video data from YouTube depends on the specific data you intend to extract and the manner in which you intend to use it. Make sure your use complies with relevant rules and regulations. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://developers.oxylabs.io/help-center/most-popular-questions/is-web-scraping-legal.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.