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Writers’ AI Fears Often Run Ahead of the Facts

janefriedman.com – Friday September 11, 2026

The biggest questions I get right now about AI:

  • How do I protect myself from an agent or publisher (or other publishing professional) using AI on my work?
  • How do I protect myself from a false accusation of AI use?
  • How can I prove that I wrote my work and/or how can I prove that my particular AI use is not a problem or doesn’t run afoul of agent/publisher guidelines?

Unfortunately, these questions don’t have straightforward answers.

How do writers protect themselves from publishing professionals using AI tools on their work without permission?
First things first, be sure to read any available policy from the agent, publisher or publishing professional about their AI use. Increasingly you’ll find a statement on their website, in their submission guidelines, or other documents they provide authors. If you can’t find one, ask. Generally you can trust them to keep their word, although I admit trust can be in short supply these days.

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