Some commercial platforms, like itch.io and Smashwords, allow creators to post works that are available for free, and no money changes hands at all when a user downloads one. Would it be in keeping with the TOS to share a link to a free work like this, or would the fact that it is a commercial site that primarily exists to sell and buy mean that such a link would not be permitted?
In general, you may not link to or mention a site that primarily acts as a commercial storefront, even if you are sharing free content there. Whether a site is considered commercial or non-commercial with monetized features depends on various factors, including how the site promotes itself.
For your specific examples, Smashwords is considered a commercial site because its primary function is to sell ebooks. Itch.io is considered a non-commercial site with monetization features, because it prioritizes free content.
Comment on TOS Spotlight: Commercial Promotion
Rune_Vanyarin Sat 28 Jun 2025 06:02PM UTC
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AO3_Policy_and_Abuse (Official) Sun 29 Jun 2025 09:23PM UTC
Last Edited Mon 30 Jun 2025 11:25AM UTC
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