A Word of Caution

Greetings Friends,

This week's What Am I Reading Wednesday post has been delayed for an important message.

For writers, the ultimate goal is usually to become published. There may be more personal mini-goals wrapped up into the journey, but sharing our work with readers is why we strive so hard to finish the next scene, finish the next chapter, finish the next book.

While the digital age has given us countless platforms for sharing what we write, whether through a forum, a blog, a fanfiction site, or a self-publishing venue, it has also unfortunately opened the doors wide for the plagiarists of the world. This is something every writer MUST take into consideration.

One of the most recent examples I've read about involves crime writer Eilis O'Hanlon. She, like many authors whose work has been stolen and "re-published" online, found out from an astute reader that someone out in cyberland was trying to pass of a series of O'Hanlon's as her own. (You can read more about how she confronted her plagiarist HERE.)

Today, another form of plagiarism was brought to my attention, one that involves the despicable act of identity theft.

A good friend of mine, a prolific (traditionally) published romance author in her own right, announced today that someone had stolen her identity, her image, and her good name within the writing community, and opened a "ghost writer for hire" ad on a freelance website. This was a red flag for anyone who knows her, because we all know she sells her BOOKS, not her services as a writer.

Luckily, it was brought to her attention and action was quickly taken. I don't know the status of the situation as of now, but I do know the appropriate authorities have been contacted.

Rectifying a situation like this can often be a long, arduous process, but there are measures we can all take to help prevent this, or at least to catch it quickly if it does happen. Having a reputable identity protection plan can make a huge difference, I know I plan on purchasing one before publishing any novels/novellas of mine. There are several affordable options, many for only a couple hundred dollars per year.

If you ever suspect an author's work or identity has been stolen, SAY SOMETHING. Even if you're wrong, it's better to let the author make sure they're protected.

If you have ever experienced an invasion of your privacy and talent like this, I am truly sorry.