The Scam is Real
As a new … as a self-….no that isn’t correct either. As a “hope to be soon newly published author,” I find interaction with other writers/authors exciting. This is because breaking out into the world of authorship is difficult (and that is a soft word). It is down right frustrating and complicated to understand all the nuances of the writing community. Plugging away at the socials trying to find your niche, and connect with other like-minded writers can be exhausting. So when an Amazon best selling author reaches out through a DM on one of the socials, fireworks of encouragement spring forth. However, as the saying goes:
if it is too good to be true, it probably is
and…
If it feels like a scam, it probably is
Background Tidbits
I have a background in technology. I have been working with computers or tech of some kind since I was 12 years old. Recently I received a communication from a best selling author (I am not going to mention the name) through a DM on one of the socials. As I patiently await the developmental editor’s report for my manuscript (see previous post here), I get excited when other authors/writers want to connect. Seeking to pursue a dream is difficult and can lead to burnout, lack of motivation, and self-doubt. Connecting with like minded writers, especially best-selling authors helps in this regard.
Unfortunately, we live in a broken world and with that comes the desire by many to scam others. My dream is to glorify God and support my family by filling pages with fantastical stories. My passion to write, teach, and help others is what I hope God will use to make my dream come true, and that is the reason I am writing this post. As a fellow writer and aspiring author, I hope you find it beneficial.
Scam Proof Yourself
In light of the quotes above, you can scam proof yourself by taking certain precautions. I know it can be difficult not to jump with glee when you get a request, follow, or DM from an author/writer. However, it is crucial to pay attention to certain aspects of the communication as this will enable you to spot the ‘fakery.’
(DISCLAIMER: fakery is a real word. See Webster’s explanation here)
Below, I have listed a few things to watch out for and a short explanation of each. Keep in mind this list is not exhaustive, but it is a good place to start.
- Broken English
- Grammar
- Sense of urgency
- Offering paid services
Broken English
If you find that a double-take is required or you have to reread the conversation due to broken/misconstrued English, SCAM ALERT! This is especially true if it is coming from a supposed writer/author. Don’t get me wrong, I make writing mistakes all the time. I cannot tell you how many times my wife charged me with “you need to figure out the difference between ‘then’ and ‘than,‘” so it is to be expected. However, if the English does not cohere with common or expected standards, it likely warrants investigative evaluation. If the English conjures up that “uh-oh” feeling, listen to your gut. Write (pun intended) it off as a scam!
Grammar
This is another tell tale sign that something may be off. Below are a few examples.
Notice first how there is an unnecessary apostrophe. ‘It’s means‘ is incorrect.
Notice again how the sentences are formed. First the scammer says, “Nah I get that, you can get such offers on X,” then says the same thing again. Take notice of the last line there: “I’m just offering my little help.” In most cases, not all, this phrase would be structured different. For example, “I’m just offering a little help,” or “I’m just offering what help I can.”
Offering Paid Services
If the conversation has been relatively short, and the scammer then offers paid services, SCAM ALERT! Notice the example below.
Sense of Urgency
Once services are offered, the scammer will usually create a sense of urgency or provide immediate contact information in hopes that I, you, or whoever else they are looking to scam will reach out. SCAM ALERT!
This is especially true if they provide an obscure phone number (noted above). +44 is a number in the United Kingdom. Don’t fall victim to shameless scammers who wish to separate you from your hard earned money.
What Should I Do
If you feel like you are being scammed, reach out and report it. First, if possible reach out directly to the individual being impersonated through normal means. For example, if they have a legitimate website with contact info, contact them and ask. In this case, that is what I did. I received clarification from the real person that they do not participate on this particular platform. I notified them with screenshots that someone was impersonating them. Then I reported the profile, blocked the user, and made a public post about it.
Trying to work full time, take care of a family, and pursue a passionate desire to write is a tough feat. The last thing you need is for some scammer to come along and make it more difficult for you to achieve your dream. I believe
for every story there is an audience, and for every audience there is a story
And so I say, write on fellow writers. As always, if you are interested in hearing more about my work, characters, or journey as I pursue my dream; you can follow on the socials below, or subscribe for more info on the Website.
