Worldbuilders are a paranoid group of people when it comes to believing that someone is out to steal their creative ideas. And it’s hard to blame them. Not because stealing the ideas of others wholesale is common within the creativity community (though a certain amount of creative borrowing or reimagining does exist), but because creating a fictional world is a labor of love, dedication, and passion. It’s hard to begrudge someone for wanting to protect that. So if you’re wary of others, here are a few things you can do to help guard your creative ideas from being poached (or at least give you some protection if they do).

Document Your Creation Process:

Maintain a detailed record of your creative journey. This can include early drafts, concept sketches, notes, and any other documentation that demonstrates the evolution of your work. In the event of a dispute, these records can serve as valuable evidence of your originality and the time and effort invested in your creation.

Date and Timestamp Your Work:

Consider using a secure timestamping service or digital notary to establish a clear timeline of your creative process. This can be particularly useful if you share your work online or with collaborators. By attaching specific dates to your creations, you establish a concrete record that can be crucial in proving the originality and timeline of your work.

Use Watermarks for Visual Works:

If your fictional work involves visual elements, such as illustrations, concept art, or designs, consider adding watermarks to your images. This can deter unauthorized use and make it easier to identify your work if it is shared without permission.

Understand Copyright Laws:

Copyright laws exist to protect the rights of creators and ensure that their work is not unlawfully reproduced or exploited. Familiarize yourself with the copyright laws applicable in your country, as they may vary. Generally, your work is automatically protected upon creation, but registering your copyright can provide additional legal advantages in case of infringement.

Build a Public Presence:

Establish a strong online presence through a personal website or social media platforms. This not only helps you connect with your audience but also creates a public record of your authorship and the development of your work.

Ideas you generate when perusing the Other Atlas website are yours to keep and use as you see fit!