Avoid sharing AO3 login info on unfamiliar cloud storage

Hey everyone! I just wanted to give a quick heads up about something important. I’ve seen some folks talking about putting their AO3 usernames and passwords into random Google Drives. This is a really bad idea!

Your AO3 account is super personal. It’s got all your stories, bookmarks, and maybe even some drafts you’re working on. Putting that info in a Google Drive you don’t know or trust is like handing your diary to a stranger.

Plus, if someone gets your login info, they could mess with your account. They might delete your works, post stuff you didn’t write, or even pretend to be you!

So please, keep your AO3 info safe. Don’t share it on drives or docs you’re not 100% sure about. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your writing and your online identity.

Stay safe out there, fellow writers!

I couldn’t agree more with this warning. As someone who’s been on AO3 for years, I’ve seen firsthand how devastating account breaches can be. A friend of mine had her account compromised after sharing login info, and it was a nightmare to sort out. Not only were her works messed with, but the hacker also sent harassing messages to other users pretending to be her.

It’s crucial to treat your AO3 credentials like you would any other sensitive account info. Use a unique, strong password and enable two-factor authentication if possible. If you absolutely must share access with a trusted co-author, AO3 has official methods for doing so safely.

Remember, your creative works are valuable. Protect them as you would any other important asset in your life. The extra caution is well worth the peace of mind.

This is a crucial reminder for all AO3 users. I’ve been part of the fanfiction community for over a decade, and the sanctity of one’s account cannot be overstated. Beyond just protecting your works, there’s also the matter of your reading history and private bookmarks. These can be deeply personal and revealing.

I once witnessed a close acquaintance lose control of their account due to a similar oversight. The aftermath was chaotic - cherished works were altered, and relationships within writing circles were strained. It took weeks to fully recover and rebuild trust.

For those who collaborate frequently, I’d suggest looking into AO3’s co-creator features. They’re designed specifically for safe collaboration without compromising account security. Always prioritize caution when it comes to your online presence and creative endeavors.

totally agree! i made mistake of sharing my ao3 login once n regretted it big time. some rando posted weird stuff on my account. took forever to fix. dont risk it peeps, ur fics r precious. keep ur login safe n use ao3s collab tools if u need 2 work w/ others. better safe than sorry!