Does ao3 delete fanfiction
Archive of Our Own (AO3) is a widely known platform for fanfiction, aiming to provide a home for all fanfiction creators and readers. As an open-source project of the Organization for Transformative Works (OTW), AO3 provides an inclusive and supportive environment for fan projects. However, many are curious about the platform's content guidelines and possible deletion protocols. This article aims to detail if and when AO3 might delete fanfiction.
Content Guidelines
AO3 follows a set of content guidelines given by the OTW, a non-profit organization aiming to protect the transformative works from legal threats. The platform allows a wide variety of content, with few restrictions in place. Aside from explicit sexual content involving characters who are, or appear to be, minors, there's hardly any content that AO3 declares unacceptable.
However, the platform does require all users to respect its content rating system and tagging policy. This measure ensures that readers are well-informed about the content they are about to read and can decide whether they want to proceed or not.
Content Takedown
Despite having lenient content guidelines, there is a possibility of content takedown on AO3 if it falls foul of these guidelines. However, the takedown process is not arbitrary and is backed by a clear method of handling such situations. The process usually starts with a complaint or report about specific content.
Upon receiving a report, AO3's Abuse Team evaluates the situation, and if necessary, may remove the work in question. Notably, the Abuse Team doesn't generally monitor content proactively; actions are largely taken in response to reports from users.
Communication with Authors
In case AO3 decides to remove any work due to non-compliance with set content guidelines, communication is established with the author. Generally, the author is given a chance to make adjustments and resubmit the work, adhering to the platform's guidelines.
At no point is an author's work removed without proper notification and clarification. The process is designed to uphold the respect and rights of the authors while ensuring the platform remains a safe and inclusive space for its users.
Preserving Anonymity
Another key aspect to cover when discussing content removal on AO3 is anonymity. The site strictly preserves the anonymity of those who report content breaches. This measure is taken to protect the identity of users and encourage a safe environment for reporting harmful or inappropriate content.
The anonymity-preserving feature gives a sense of security to the users, ensuring they can trust the website with their privacy and safety concerns while reporting any violations.
Frequency of Deletion
Given AO3's lenient content guidelines, it should be noted that the platform does not frequently delete fanfiction. Acts of deletion are relatively rare, occurring mostly in situations where the guidelines are blatantly disregarded or potentially damaging content is reported.
In other words, while the deletion of content is possible on AO3, it is by no means a regular occurrence. Generally speaking, as long as authors respect the content guidelines and the safety of their audience, their works will remain available for the community to enjoy.
Commonly Asked Questions
1. Does AO3 delete inactive accounts?
As of now, AO3 does not delete inactive accounts. The site believes in preserving all works, and that includes those by authors who may have been inactive for several years.
2. What happens if my fanfiction is reported on AO3?
If your fanfiction is reported, AO3's Abuse Team will review the complaint. If valid, they'll contact you to discuss any necessary changes. The work may be hidden temporarily during this process but is typically restored once issues have been addressed.
3. What kind of content is not allowed on AO3?
Explicit adult content involving characters who are, or appear to be, underaged is not permitted. Additionally, any content that involves non-consensual or harmful behavior and violates AO3's guidelines is not allowed. However, as long as appropriate warnings and tags are used, AO3 is relatively lenient on content.
Conclusion
While AO3 possesses the ability to delete fanfiction, it happens infrequently and generally following a thorough and transparent process. The platform's priority is to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all fanfiction authors and readers, with respect for freedom of expression and commitment to user safety.
References
1. Organization for Transformative Works. "Archive of Our Own: Content Policy." OTW, 2021.
2. AO3 News. "Updates to AO3 Content Guidelines." AO3, 2019.
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