Manuscript Security (What You Need To Know)
- Andrew Heasman (Author)
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
You've decided, after a lot of painstaking thought and indecision, to hand your cherished manuscript to a third party, either for editing, assessing, or beta-reading. But how safe will your document be?
Recently, I've had a number of enquiries from potential clients (and I've seen the question raised on social media quite a few times) asking how safe their book would be. With the rise of scammers and AI, they fear that their manuscript will be copied, pirated, or published in another's name. Others fear that AI bots will have access to it, and even if not duplicated, it will be used to 'train' the AI systems without their knowledge.
While it would be nice to rely on a physical security guard to protect these documents, in the real world, this isn't possible. Instead, it is down to the individual editor/beta-reader to provide some form of security.
When you advertise online for beta-readers, ARC readers, and even editors, how many replies come from completely anonymous service providers? No contact details, no websites, just a random email address or social media presence. It's no wonder people are falling prey to these scammers.
But what should you look for from a reputable service provider?
I can only comment about the services ProofwriteUK provides as all writing service providers are different. But the things to look for include:
Do they have multiple online presences? You might check for various social media links, websites, etc.
Do they have a linked email address or contact form on their website?
Do they have an actual address?
Do they display their T&Cs or advertise that they offer a contract or NDA?
How receptive are they to 'interrogation' (ie. ask them lots of questions)?
Ask, specifically how they will protect your property and copyright, and what online resources do they use to 'assist' in the editing/reading process?
If you use ProofwriteUK, we provide answers to all of the above. We exist on Facebook and X, we have a website with all contact information provided, we display T&Cs (see bottom of each page) and provide contracts.
But more than that, we specifically state that we are a "NO AI" editing service. What this means is that we do ALL editing by hand, in person, by humans (i.e. me). No reports or summaries are written by bots (all done by me), all edits are done using Track Changes with each suggestion or change fully commented on (by me) and all verifiable with the source of the reason for the change noted.
In the contract, a recent addition (suggested by ACES) includes clauses to state that no online resources will be used to aid editing without the express agreement of the author. What this refers to is the use of online resources such as spelling and grammar checkers. While some authors use these anyway, others expressly request that no contact with potential AI systems is used. This is fine either way, and is always agreed before work commences.
Equally, the new clauses ask the author to disclose whether they have used AI to write all, or part, of their book. We then have the option of declining their job if we choose.
But what stops the editor from copying or stealing the manuscript?
As stated earlier, we provide a contract. This is a legally binding document that protects both parties. It acts as an NDA providing provisions to not disclose, copy, or release any parts of the book except with the author's permission, and it states that the author retains the copyright over the entire book. This can be requested for beta-reading services too, but is always provided for any editing projects.
In addition, how safe are the author's payments to the editor?
With ProofwriteUK, all payments are agreed in advance (by contract) so are not changed during the project. Each payment is invoiced (as per the contract), and payment is via PayPal (unless otherwise agreed), thus providing financial protection.
So, to protect your written work, ensure you follow these steps for manuscript security and stick to a reputable service provider to edit or beta-read your work.
For information of my copyediting, line editing, and proofreading services, go to https://www.proofwriteuk.com where all of your questions will be answered.
If you'd like to discuss your manuscript's requirements, or would like to obtain a FREE quote (or a FREE 1000 word sample edit), please contact me through my website's "contact" page, email address, or via Facebook or X (Twitter).
Email: AJHeasman.ProofWrite@aol.com
I also offer my services through Fiverr
