Beware the Bait-and-Switch: How Online Publishing Platforms Can "Micro-Cheat" Their Authors
The internet revolutionized publishing, empowering authors to share their work and reach global audiences.
But amidst the golden promises lurk “shadowy practices” that exploit and disrespect writers.
We're not talking about outright scams.
But rather subtle "micro-cheating" tactics that erode trust and chip away at an author's livelihood.
Think of emotional infidelity in romantic relationships but for your author-platform bond.
These seemingly harmless actions, if left unchecked, can have detrimental consequences.
So,
Writers, we expose the “deceptive tactics” used by some platforms.
1. Chameleon Agreement (Online Publishing Agreement, Bait and Switch Clause, Copyright):
A dream offer lures you into signing up, but you discover a hidden clause in the final contract. Ownership becomes unclear, rewards decrease, and workload increases abnormally.
“Remember:
Read the details before you hit send!”
2. Ghost Game (message from the author, ghosting of publication, the platform not responding):
