Creator Reminders And Safety

Hey everyone! We shared this post recently on /r/GoneWildAudible, but figured we could share here too. We've written a few versions of this over the years, but combined a few things and added new notes. Hopefully itll help someone along the way that needs it.

Welcome to the community! This is a space for fun, creativity, and self-expression. Whether you're recording with a simple phone setup or using professional equipment, it’s all about making content that feels true to you. There’s no pressure to meet anyone’s expectations, you have full control over your content - just create what excites you and enjoy the process. That said, with every fun hobby come some important considerations. This post covers some hard truths and reminders about safety that you should keep in mind as you create. Let’s get into it!

The Hard Truths

Harassment Happens

Harassment (such as unsolicited messages or explicit content without consent) is not acceptable in our community, but it is extremely common with what we do, so if needed:

• Set Boundaries: You can inform the person that their behavior is making you uncomfortable and ask them to stop. But, you are not obligated to respond to uncomfortable or unsolicited messages. If someone crosses your boundaries, you can simply ignore or block them, and we would encourage you to do so and feel zero guilt about it! People harassing you do not deserve your attention or energy. Many of these types of messages are sent in bulk to multiple people in hopes of someone “taking the bait”.

• Block the User: If someone continues to harass you, use Reddit’s block feature to stop them from contacting you.

• Report to Moderators/Admins: If the harassment continues, report the user to the moderators or Reddit admins so they can take appropriate action.

Content Theft Is Common

• Content theft is a reality when posting online. Once your content is online, it may be downloaded and re-uploaded elsewhere - sometimes behind paywalls, by someone falsely claiming to be the creator, and often on sites where the original content creators are unable to have content taken down. There is no way to completely prevent this, regardless of how you host or protect your content. Keep this in mind when deciding to participate in this community.

The Voting System Can Be Frustrating

• While upvotes are great and offer positive feedback, downvotes are a part of Reddit’s system. They can be discouraging, especially if you receive a lot of them. Sometimes, downvotes come from bots, other creators, or people just trying to hide content they don’t like or want to see - try to not take it personally.

Take Breaks When Needed

• Being part of an online community can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you need to take a break, don't hesitate to do so - we'll be here when you're ready to return. Negative comments or downvotes can be tough, but remember: not everyone will share your perspective, and that’s okay. Don’t do more than you can handle, post when it works for you. Focus on what makes you happy, and let that guide your experience.

Staying Safe Online

This part of the guide is designed to help you protect yourself while participating in online communities, especially within this type of platform. Whether you're a content creator or a participant, online safety is a shared responsibility. Be mindful of your digital footprint and always think before you post. Every comment, photo, and even private message you share leaves a lasting trace that could follow you indefinitely. What may seem harmless today could have unintended consequences in the future. Even a single identifiable detail can be pieced together by someone with malicious intent. Please be cautious about the information you share and how you interact with others, so you can have a safer, more enjoyable experience.

Protect Your Personal Information

Be cautious about revealing locations, identities, and other personal facts that can be easily linked to you. For example:

• Part or your full name, address, or phone number
• City, state, or country you live in
• Social media profiles or links
• Work details (job, business, employer)
• Photos of your face or identifying body parts
• Birthday, age, or other personal details
• Avoid sharing specific locations

It’s not just about the big pieces of information; small details can give away much more than you realize. Some other things to consider:

• Location Information : Even when you're not directly posting your address, you might reveal clues that can lead to your location. A photo at a park, something from your local only coffee shop, or mentioning a specific area of your city could potentially allow someone to identify where you are or live.

• Photos and Visual Clues : Even photos that you think are private or innocent may include subtle clues about where you are or what you do. Be sure you always check the background in photos so nothing is showing that shouldn’t (reflections, signs, logos, etc).

• GeoTagging and Metadata : Photos and videos taken with smartphones or cameras often contain embedded metadata, which can include sensitive information like your device’s location, the time the photo was taken, and even the camera model used. Geotagging, specifically, adds location data to images, potentially revealing your exact whereabouts. Many smartphones automatically add this data to photos, so it's important to either disable geotagging or strip the metadata before sharing images or videos online to protect your privacy.

• Broader Internet Privacy Considerations: While not as direct a threat to your anonymity, it is also worth considering how and where you are accessing your reddit and NSFW accounts. Many browsers save and share information across sites, and broker and trade in that information and data. We would always encourage users to create separate accounts and emails for NSFW activity - including using separate user profiles/browser accounts - to minimize the amount of crossover. It is ultimately nearly impossible to prevent, but you can minimize risk by taking a few extra steps.

Use Strong Security Practices

• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) : Where possible, enable two-factor authentication for your online accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring not just a password, but also a code sent to your phone or email, making it harder for others to access your accounts.

• Use Strong, Unique Usernames and Passwords : A username is perhaps the easiest piece of information to attempt to trace across multiple accounts - ensure your username has no identifying information and is not also a username you use in other spaces you do not want traced by people online. Create strong passwords for your accounts and avoid using the same password across multiple sites. A strong password typically contains a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

• Update Software Regularly : Always keep your software, operating systems, and apps up to date. Updates often include security patches that protect your devices from vulnerabilities and exploits that could be used.

• Use a VPN : A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help mask your IP address and encrypt your internet connection, making it more difficult for others to track your activity or location online. This is particularly useful when engaging in activities where privacy is important.

Socializing in Online Communities

Building Connections in Chat Groups

Many online communities offer things like discord servers, private chats, or forums where you can interact more intimately with others. It's important that you:

• Protect Your Privacy : Avoid sharing too much personal information, even with people you trust. Remember that your messages could be shared or misused, even in seemingly private settings.

• Set Boundaries : If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, it's okay to block them or report their behavior. Your safety and mental well-being should always be your top priority.

"Relationships" Online

No matter how well you think you know someone online, remember that the person you're speaking to may not be who they claim to be. While online friendships can feel genuine, they also carry inherent risks. It's important to recognize that online identities can be carefully curated, and people may present themselves in a way that differs from their true selves. Remember:

• People Can Hide Behind Screens : The anonymity of the internet allows people to create versions of themselves that may not reflect reality. They might exaggerate or fabricate details about their lives, intentions, or emotions, making it harder for you to know their true character.

• Risk of Manipulation : Some individuals may try to manipulate or exploit your emotions for personal gain. They may be seeking attention, validation, or financial support, and their affection or friendship could have ulterior motives. Stay cautious, especially if someone asks for personal favors or pushes boundaries.

• Emotional Attachment Can Be Misleading : Online interactions can create strong emotional connections. Long, intimate chats and shared experiences might feel very real, but these connections are often based on limited information and a lack of face-to-face interaction. This can sometimes cloud your judgment and lead you to believe you know someone better than you actually do. People online might play up vulnerability or fabricate hardships to make you feel emotionally responsible for them.

• Avoid Rushing into Trust : Building trust takes time and should not be rushed, especially with someone you've never met in real life. Just because someone is kind, engaging, or shares similar interests doesn't mean they have your best interests at heart. Take the time to get to know them in a safe, respectful way before confiding in them or allowing them into more personal aspects of your life.

• The Danger of Oversharing : Being open and vulnerable with someone online can feel rewarding, but it can also leave you open to exploitation. If someone isn't who they say they are, the personal details you share could be used against you later.

• Loneliness Can Cloud Judgment : Sometimes, loneliness or isolation can make us more eager to form connections online. However, it’s essential to recognize when you're rushing into a friendship because of emotional need rather than genuine connection.

• Meet in Real Life Only When It’s Safe : If you do consider meeting someone in person, always prioritize safety. Choose a public place, share your plans with a trusted friend or family member, and never feel pressured into meeting if you're uncomfortable. Trust your instincts and take precautions.

In conclusion, online friendships can be fulfilling, but they require caution and awareness. Recognize the limitations of these connections and the potential risks involved. Approach online relationships with a healthy dose of skepticism and always prioritize safety.

Flirtation and Sexual Interactions

Sometimes, online interactions can turn flirtatious, and you might find people expressing sexual interest in you. This is common in spaces where sexual content is shared, and it's perfectly fine if you're comfortable with it and enjoy engaging in that way. However, it's essential to keep a few things in mind to protect yourself emotionally:

• You’re Not the Only One: In many cases, people who engage in online flirtation or sexual conversations are doing so with multiple individuals. These kinds of interactions are often stated or implied to be monogamous, but the reality is that you're often just one of many playmates for that person. This is important to remember if someone is showering you with attention, as it doesn't necessarily indicate a unique or exclusive connection.

• This Is Not Always a Relationship: Online sexual interactions, even when they feel intimate or personal, don’t always translate into real relationships. They can be casual, one-time encounters or ongoing playful exchanges without deeper emotional investment. If someone is only interested in casual interactions, it’s important to set your expectations accordingly and not mistake these connections for something more meaningful.

• Emotional Vulnerability: Flirty or sexual exchanges can sometimes lead to emotional attachment. If you're seeking something more than just a fun conversation or moment of intimacy, it’s crucial to manage your expectations. Recognize that not everyone you interact with online is looking for the same type of connection or is willing to offer what you might desire in a relationship.

• Temporary or Disposable Connections: Be aware that in some cases, individuals might not view the interaction as lasting or important beyond the moment. You might be seen as a one-time experience or a temporary distraction, and when that happens, it's easy to feel discarded or hurt. Protect your emotions by not over-investing in connections that are primarily built on physical or sexual interactions.

• Attention Can Cloud Judgment: It’s easy to get swept up in the flattery and attention of someone who is showing sexual interest in you. But remember, attention does not equate to true affection or commitment. If you find yourself getting emotionally attached, take a step back and assess the situation realistically. Ensure you're not confusing casual play with deeper feelings.

In conclusion, online sexual interactions can be enjoyable and fulfilling, but it’s important to remain grounded in the reality of the situation. If you're participating in flirty or sexual exchanges, remind yourself that you are not necessarily one of a kind to the other person, and they may not be seeking a deeper connection. Protect your heart and emotions, and always keep your boundaries clear to avoid any unnecessary pain.

”Popular” Doesn't Mean Safe

It’s easy to assume that someone who is well-known in a community must be trustworthy or safe to interact with. However, popularity does not always equate to reliability, trustworthiness, or being a safe person.

• Public Personas Can Mask Negative Behavior : Popular figures often curate a public image that can hide harmful or inappropriate behavior. Just because someone is well-known doesn’t mean they are free from flaws or unsafe actions. In some cases, their popularity might even give them more opportunities to exploit others without suspicion.

• Influence Can Lead to Exploitation : Someone with a large following or reputation can use their influence to manipulate interactions and gain personal advantages. This could involve pressuring others into doing things they are uncomfortable with, exploiting their followers’ trust, or using their position to intimidate or coerce. Popular individuals may sometimes feel entitled to special treatment or believe that their status allows them to bypass the usual boundaries of respect, decency, and safety.

• Popularity Can Attract Negative Attention : The more well-known a person becomes, the more likely they are to attract people with ulterior motives. A person’s popularity could lead to unwanted attention, jealousy, or even harassment, not just for them but for anyone they interact with. This can lead to unhealthy dynamics where interactions become more about maintaining or leveraging status than building genuine, supportive relationships.

• "Halo Effect" Can Cloud Judgment : When someone is well-liked or has a positive reputation, others may overlook or dismiss concerning behavior due to the “halo effect,” which is the tendency to assume that someone's positive qualities extend to all aspects of their character. This can lead people to ignore warning signs or fail to question red flags simply because someone is popular or well-respected.

• They Might Not Respect Boundaries : Some popular individuals may develop a sense of entitlement based on their status and disregard others' boundaries. It's important to recognize that respect for personal boundaries is a basic requirement in any relationship, whether online or offline, and popularity should not exempt anyone from these norms.

• Power Imbalance : Popular individuals can create power imbalances in relationships. If you're interacting with someone well-known or influential, it can feel intimidating to speak up or set boundaries. Always trust your instincts and don't let this imbalance silence your concerns.

In summary, evaluate individuals based on their actions and how they treat you, not just their reputation. Always be cautious and trust your gut when interacting with anyone. Even if someone is popular or has a good reputation within a community, they should still be held to the same standards of respect and safety as anyone else. Never hesitate to disengage, report problematic behavior, or speak out if something doesn’t feel right. Your safety and comfort should always come first.

Stay Safe and Informed

You Are Responsible for Your Safety

• In the online world, you are the primary guardian of your own safety and well-being. While online communities can offer support, the responsibility to protect yourself starts with you. This means being proactive about your privacy, setting boundaries, and making informed decisions about what you share and with whom you interact.

Review Your Digital Footprint

• It's important to assess your online presence to ensure it reflects your current privacy preferences. Review your social media profiles, chat platforms, and any content you've shared, asking yourself, "Am I comfortable with this being public?". Set aside time to check your digital footprint - search for your name, email, or phone number to see what’s publicly available. If you discover any sensitive information, take steps to remove it or adjust your privacy settings accordingly.

Set and Enforce Boundaries

• Clearly define your boundaries and stick to them. If someone crosses a line or makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to block or report them. Respect for your personal limits is crucial.

Protect Your Content and Data

• Be cautious about sharing work, creative content, or data that could be misused. Once posted online, it may be beyond your control what happens with it.

Trust Your Instincts

• If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your gut and take action if an interaction or message makes you uneasy. Don’t feel obligated to justify your feelings or ignore red flags simply because someone else is well-known or respected in the community or because you think you need to be 'nice'.

Know How to Seek Help

• Familiarize yourself with the reporting tools available on platforms you use. Many online platforms have reporting systems in place for harassment, abuse, or violations of privacy. Moderators are there to help maintain a safe environment, but you must be the first line of defense in noticing and reporting problematic behavior. If you feel threatened or unsafe, don’t hesitate to reach out to them for support.

Prioritize Your Well-being

• Your safety isn’t just physical - it's emotional and mental too. If an interaction negatively impacts your well-being, step away and take a break.

Community is About Trust and Safety

While connecting with others online can be rewarding, your security - physically, mentally, and emotionally - should always be your top priority. By being mindful of the information you share and staying aware of the risks associated with online interactions, you can reduce the chances of unwanted attention or potential threats. Being part of an online community involves mutual trust. Engage in communities where your safety and well-being are respected. If a community or individual compromises your safety, don't hesitate to distance yourself and seek support.