For many writers, the internet feels like a bridge between passion and opportunity. Platforms like Vocal Media promise creators a space to publish their stories, reach global audiences, and even earn for their work. As a writer from Pakistan, where online earning platforms are already limited, this sounded like a golden chance.
So, I started writing.
Over time, I published more than 100 stories — thoughtful essays, lifestyle pieces, reflections, and creative ideas. Each story carried my effort, research, and creativity. Gradually, I began to see results. The views increased, and with them, my earnings. It felt like my words finally had a home where they were not only read but also valued.
Then, everything changed.
When Everything Disappeared
One day, I tried to open the Vocal Media website — and I simply couldn’t access it anymore. From my location in Pakistan, the site no longer worked. Even when I used a VPN, I could only view my published stories but couldn’t manage them, continue writing, or withdraw my earnings.
That’s when it hit me: everything I had worked for was gone. My 100+ published stories were stuck on a platform I could no longer use.
No email.
No explanation.
No warning.
Just silence
I Can’t Access It Anymore
At this point, I can’t log in or properly use Vocal Media from Pakistan. Without direct access, it feels like months of effort and creativity have gone to waste.
Yes, my stories are still visible online through a VPN, but what is the purpose of that when I can’t continue writing, manage my work.
For me, this is more than an inconvenience — it’s a real loss.
The Risks of Relying on Online Platforms
What happened to me is not unique. Many creators around the world — and especially in countries like Pakistan — face challenges when depending on global platforms. Some of the biggest risks include:
Blocked Access: A platform may not even be available in your country.
Account Suspension or Content Removal: Platforms can suddenly delete or block content without providing clarity.
Payment Restrictions: Many sites don’t support direct payouts to countries like Pakistan, forcing creators to depend on third-party solutions.
Policy Changes: A platform may change its rules overnight, affecting how (or if) you get paid.
Lack of Control: At the end of the day, you don’t own the platform — they do. Your work, your earnings, and even your audience can vanish without warning.
Lessons Learned
Losing access to more than 100 published stories was painful. But it also taught me some important lessons that I believe every creator should keep in mind:
Own Your Work: Always keep backups of everything you publish. Platforms may disappear, but your content should remain yours.
Diversify Your Platforms: Don’t put all your effort into one site. Explore multiple spaces — blogs, Medium, YouTube, or your own website.
Build Your Own Space: The safest platform is one you control. A personal blog or website ensures that your work can’t be erased by someone else’s decision.
Understand Payment Systems: Before committing to a platform, research how payments work for creators in your country.
Expect the Unexpected: Treat third-party platforms as a stepping stone, not your foundation.
A Message for Fellow Creators
To all writers, especially those in Pakistan: your words matter, your creativity matters, and your stories deserve a safe space. Platforms like Vocal Media may come and go, but the most valuable thing you can do is invest in yourself.
Create your own blog. Build your portfolio. Share your work on multiple platforms. Most importantly, never let one setback define your journey.
Because while platforms may disappear — your voice, your ideas, and your passion for storytelling never will.
"This is not just my story; it’s a reminder to all digital creators to protect their work and build something lasting beyond third-party platforms"
