Hidden Practices Behind the Platform’s Bans
As someone with 15 years of freelancing experience, I’ve seen the ups and downs of numerous platforms. Writing has always been my passion; finding a space to share my work and connect with an audience is crucial. About a year or two ago, I discovered Medium.com, a platform promising creative freedom and a chance to earn through writing. But my journey on Medium has been anything but fulfilling. Instead of being a space for creativity and fairness, Medium has shown me its darker side, leaving me disillusioned and heartbroken.
A Rough Start: Suspended Accounts Without Warning
At first, I thought the problems I faced on Medium were due to my mistakes. Sixteen of my accounts were blocked over time. I reflected on what might have gone wrong and worked harder to improve my content each time. I followed their rules meticulously, striving to create value for readers.
Yet, my accounts kept getting revoked without warning or detailed explanations. The emails I received provided vague, generic reasons, often without evidence or clarification. Despite my efforts, Medium consistently left me in the dark, refusing to give me a chance to understand or rectify any issues.
The Shocking Truth Behind Medium’s Practices
It wasn’t until recently that I began to uncover the bigger picture. Medium has over 85–100 million monthly active users, many of whom pay the $5 monthly membership fee. This translates to massive revenue. However, I noticed a disturbing pattern: Medium bans many smaller accounts, reportedly over 15 million, often without valid reasons or proof.
Why would they do this? The math reveals a troubling possibility. By banning accounts, Medium avoids paying out earnings to writers and retains the monthly subscription fees from users who can no longer log in or access their accounts. Moreover, the emails associated with the banned accounts are often blocked entirely, ensuring no avenue for appeals or inquiries.
This raises an important question: If Medium operates transparently and fairly, why block emails and deny writers the ability to defend themselves?
The Emotional Toll on Writers
The emotional impact of such practices on writers like me cannot be overstated. Writing isn’t just about earning money; it’s about passion, expression, and connecting with readers. For freelancers, platforms like Medium represent an opportunity to grow and share our voice.
When a platform repeatedly silences you without justification, it feels like a personal attack. Investing time, energy, and creativity only to be mistreated is disheartening. Medium’s actions left me questioning my worth as a writer and the platform’s integrity.
The Financial and Ethical Concerns
Medium’s approach is not only emotionally damaging but also ethically questionable. If the platform bans accounts without valid reasons, doesn’t provide proof, and blocks emails, it signals a lack of accountability.
Imagine the financial implications. With 15 million banned accounts paying $5 per month, Medium could be pocketing millions from users denied access to their accounts. This practice is not only unethical but could border on fraud. Writers and subscribers deserve transparency and fairness, not to be exploited for profit.
A Call to Action: Don’t Waste Your Time
For those considering joining Medium, I urge you to think twice. Platforms should empower creators, not exploit them. Medium’s questionable practices have shown me it’s not a space for growth or fairness. Instead, I recommend exploring other platforms that value their writers and foster an environment of mutual respect and trust.
Some alternatives include:
- Substack: A newsletter platform that allows you to build a direct relationship with your audience.
- WordPress: Create your blog and take complete control of your content.
- Vocal Media: A platform that pays writers based on reads without a subscription model.
Medium’s issues highlight the need for writers to diversify their platforms and not rely solely on one source for their creative outlet.
Final Thoughts
Medium.com markets itself as a writer-friendly platform, but my experience and the experience of millions of others tell a different story. If it were truly committed to fairness, it would provide transparency, detailed explanations, and an appeals process.
As writers, we deserve better. It’s time to shift our focus to platforms that respect our craft and honor their commitment to creativity. Don’t let Medium’s empty promises waste your time and energy. Choose a platform that values you as much as you value your work.