DMCA Policy
As a platform built by and for fan creators, the Archive of Our Own (AO3) is deeply committed to protecting the rights of content creators while fostering a vibrant space for transformative work. Our approach to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) is designed to balance these values, ensuring a respectful and legally compliant environment for all users.
Understanding DMCA on AO3
The DMCA is a U.S. copyright law that provides a framework for addressing claims of copyright infringement online. For AO3, this means we have a process in place to handle valid infringement claims while also protecting creators' ability to challenge those claims if they believe their work has been wrongly targeted. This system is often referred to as the "notice and takedown" procedure.
When we receive a complete and valid DMCA notice from a copyright holder alleging that a work on AO3 infringes their rights, we are legally required to remove or disable access to that content. The user who posted the content will be notified of this action.
Your Rights Under DMCA: The Counter-Notice Process
If you believe your work was removed mistakenly or misidentified as infringing, you have the right to file a counter-notice. This is a formal legal document stating that you have a good faith belief the removal was an error. When we receive a valid counter-notice, we will forward it to the original complainant. Unless they notify us that they have filed a legal action seeking a court order against you, we may reinstate the material after 10-14 business days.
How AO3 Upholds Creative Rights
Our parent organization, the Organization for Transformative Works (OTW), actively advocates for fan creators' rights within legal systems worldwide. This includes submitting petitions to update DMCA exemptions that benefit fan creators, such as those allowing fan video makers to extract content for non-profit works.
Additionally, AO3 maintains clear policies against uploading content that infringes on others' copyrights. We encourage users to only post works they created themselves or have permission to share. When importing external works to AO3, we require that you obtain proper authorization from the original creator before sharing their content on our platform.
Working Together to Protect the Fan Culture
We believe in the power of fan creativity and work diligently to maintain a space where transformative works can thrive. By respecting copyright laws and following our content policies, our community helps preserve AO3 as a safe haven for fanworks worldwide.
If you have questions about a specific DMCA notice or need guidance on filing a counter-notice, please contact our Support team through your AO3 account. For more information about copyright and fandom, visit the Legal Advocacy section of the OTW website.
About the Archive
Contact Us
Development
Relevant information
Parental guardianship of minors
Hey there, parents!
Noticed your teen spending time on "Archive of Our Own" (AO3)? It's a huge, non-profit library where fans write stories based on books, shows, and games. As with any online space, it's smart to understand what it is and how to guide your child.
Start with a Chat, Not a Crackdown
Instead of worrying, get curious. Ask, "What stories are you into on AO3?" This opens a dialogue and shows you respect their interests. You might learn about new characters and creative worlds they love.
AO3's Built-in Safety Nets
The site has smart features that put readers in control:
① Ratings: Every story has a rating like "General Audiences" or "Teen." It's a clear signal, just like movie ratings.
② Tags & Warnings: Authors tag stories with content notes. If your teen wants to avoid certain topics, they can. It's all about informed choices.
Your Role: The Trusted Guide
Your job isn't to ban, but to mentor.
① Set Boundaries Together: Talk about the rating system. Agree on what's appropriate for your family.
②Keep Talking: The best tool is open communication. Let them know they can always come to you if something online makes them uncomfortable.
By understanding AO3 and staying connected, you help your teen build lifelong skills for navigating the digital world safely and wisely. It's a team effort
Anti addiction statement
A Quick Word on Healthy Reading from AO3
Hello to all the fanfiction lovers out there! Welcome to the official home for the AO3 app. We're here to talk about something we all think about: finding a good balance with our screen time.
We get it—it's easy to fall into a fantastic story and lose track of time.
Our goal is to make sure your time on the AO3 app is enjoyable and doesn't get in the way of your day. It’s all about enjoying those creative worlds while staying connected to your own.
So, what are we doing to help? Our app includes gentle features like reading reminders. After a long session, you might get a nudge to take a break.
We also offer simple tools for you to set your own reading goals. These aren't hard rules, just friendly options to help you build healthier habits. You're in the driver's seat.
Here’s our advice: try to fit your reading into natural downtime. Maybe for a little while after meals or before bed.
Make it a treat, not your main activity. Remember to chat with friends, get some fresh air, and check in with yourself.
Our app's simple stats can help you see your usage patterns.
Our team is committed to your well-being.
This isn't a one-time thing; we're always looking for ways to support a balanced digital life for our users. We believe technology should work for you, not the other way around.
Thank you for being part of the AO3 community. Let's keep fanfiction a fun and positive part of our lives. Happy (and mindful) reading!
