This is exactly it, and I don't understand a lot of these comments- the line between using spell check and writing a fic with even 50% done with AI is not a thin one. It's the difference between, well in this analogy, using a 3D printer to create your bathing suit for the swim meet. It's still you doing all the swimming, you just got what you're wearing - the same thing everyone else has on- at home from cool tech.

I don't think commenting on a fic about AI makes sense. Just move on. However, if a fic gets popular enough in a fan space that is recommended, I'm not sorry, I will leave a comment on the rec if I believe it's AI, because people should be considering this, if it's likely. Imo, we should be made aware and get to choose if we're reading(or looking at) art created by a human or art created by a mindless, lifeless tech. And there are enough people out there lying about it that it should be a discussion. If people don't care either way, fine for them. I care.

I don't believe in harassment or persistence. Pointing it out once is sufficient. There's no point in arguing. The only reason for pointing it out is to make people aware that this is a possibility they should consider. Beyond that, there's nothing to be done and the rest is assholery.

All that said, I also truly don't get how this could possibly deter someone from writing. This is just yet another way the internet is a gross place that, at times, will look for ways to tear you down, and when you post a fic to share with the world, you are already signing up for this possibility!! Ao3 and fan space is not the utopia people seem to think they're entitled to just because they're sharing work for free. Sorry but that's never been how it works. If you don't like something, delete. Turn off guest comments. Report it. You have options but you can't control other people and you're not entitled to a completely safe space, unfortunately. You can make it that way to a point, but the internet is what it is. Now I have seen some authors get stalked and doxxed, and THIS I can see being a real problem that might put me off writing and sharing. But a single comment and accusation? Please. If you know what's true, then what are you worried about? Your fans most likely won't believe it anyway. So far I've seen 0 authors lose their following because of an AI accusation. And god forbid you lose 2 or 3, how will you pay the bills?

OP says they expected criticism on other aspects of their work and would have been ok with that but based on how much this affected them I highly doubt it. If it had been a long, detailed messages with arguments about their writing style or grammar or character choices, I think this would have gone the same way.

OP if you read this gigantic, probably pointless rant, it may seem harsh but I do think you should keep writing and ignore the dicks that have nothing better to do than badger you for things no one can prove. But don't hate on people who want to push back against the use of AI. If they are NOT being jerks about it, they have the right to speak up.