Abstract: DC magnetization data of superconducting thin YBCO films, measured by means of a magnetometer in which the sample is pulled through a set of pick-up coils, are often calculated from pick-up signals which clearly deviate from the ideal response. We show how these signal distortions influence the values obtained for the magnetization, and present a simple model that enables one to simulate the temperature dependence of these distorted pick-up signals, in the case of low-field magnetization measurements. The model is based on the magnetic field inhomogeneity of the magnetometer, in combination with the hysteretic magnetization of the superconducting sample. Optimum values for the model parameters are derived and discussed.