How Established Writers Exploit Stories and Profit from Unknown Authors on Medium
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Chapter 1: The Issue of Story Theft
The issue of story theft is more prevalent on Medium than one might expect. While not all writers engage in this practice, it is a significant concern that undermines the integrity of the platform. Just as we must credit photographers for their images, writers should also acknowledge the authors of the stories they draw from.
My writing is deeply personal, and I firmly believe that those who utilize my work should at least reference my articles. It’s disheartening to witness someone with a larger audience profiting from my efforts without any recognition.
For instance, consider the following statement from a writer:
"I would say, 'I am sorry YOU feel this way; I did not mean it. You always misunderstand and judge me based on your negative opinion.'" Over time, I’ve come to realize how disingenuous such apologies can appear, often manifesting as non-apologies or vague justifications.
I encourage you to read the situation for yourself and share your thoughts.
I've been analyzing the behavior of those who appropriate the work of others. They often flatter you with compliments while subscribing to your content solely to harvest your ideas. Although I primarily observe this behavior among male writers, I have noticed a few female offenders as well.
Let me be clear: I quickly copy the offending article, report the individual, and block them without hesitation.
It’s essential to be vigilant against these fraudsters who operate under false identities, fake images, and even fabricated qualifications. We must work together to put a stop to this.
What are your thoughts, reader?
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In the video "Here's the Truth About Writing on Medium…", the speaker discusses the realities and challenges writers face on Medium, touching on issues like content theft and the importance of original voices.
Chapter 2: Practical Tips for Safeguarding Your Work
The second video, "7 Hacks I Learned from Posting 1,700 Stories as a Top Writer on Medium", shares valuable strategies for writers to protect their content and thrive in a competitive environment.