Anywhere there are people who want something, there is a scammer lurking to take money and steal dreams. Even in the publishing industry. In fact, chances are good you’ll hear from a scammer before you’ll hear from an agent, publisher, or reader. Just check the DM’s in your social media the minute you add “author” to your profile name.

Here is list of common author scams, how to spot the red flags, and what to do if you suspect you’ve been targeted. Plus, I offer a few tips on how to investigate resources to determine if they’re on the up and up.

1. Pay-to-Publish Scams (Vanity Presses in Disguise)

Vanity presses work to pass themselves off as real publishing houses, but in reality, they make their money from authors, not for authors. They often claim to be “full-service publishers” or “boutique publishing companies” and market themselves as a viable alternative to traditional publishing.

These companies prey on the emotions of new or hopeful authors, especially those who feel frustrated by rejection or overwhelmed by self-publishing, and convince them they’re offering a prestigious deal. But instead of investing in your book’s success, they charge you thousands of dollars to publish, edit, design, and market your book, often poorly or not at all.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• They email or call you first praising your book without reading it, often using vague compliments like “your voice is so strong” or “we see bestseller potential.”
• They accept every submission and offer a contract within days.
• They require thousands upfront, but the breakdown of costs is unclear or inflated.
• They take a cut of royalties or rights, even though you’re footing the bill.
• Their publishing “package” includes basic services you could get elsewhere for a fraction of the cost (and likely better quality).
• They bundle in overpriced “marketing” services like book trailers, press releases, or social media posts that have little-to-no impact on actual sales.
• They guarantee bookstore placement, bestseller status, or media attention.
• They use manipulative language, like “limited slots available,” or shame authors who hesitate.
• You can’t find real reviews or authors who’ve had success with them.
• Their contracts are vague, especially about rights and termination.

Are all vanity presses scams? Not necessarily. Many vanity presses are basically printers. They’ll take whatever book you want to publish and print it. But it’s expensive because they usually require you to print a set amount (e.g. 1,000 copies). If just want your book in the world, you can use Amazon’s KDP publishing platform for free.

The questionable vanity presses we’re talking about here are the ones who pretend to be traditional publishers, make promises they can’t deliver, and are more about taking your money than publishing a book.

What about Hybrid publishers?

A hybrid publisher blends aspects of traditional and self-publishing. The author usually contributes to production costs but receives professional-level services and keeps higher royalties. Hybrid publishers are a viable option for getting your book into the world (do you due diligent research though).

Key traits of Hybrid Publishers:

• Selective about the manuscripts they accept. Hybrid publishers vet manuscripts the same way traditional publishers do.
• Offers professional editing, cover design, marketing, distribution
• Author invests money but retains rights and transparency in royalties
• Is upfront about costs, expectations, and the business model
• Actively markets books to readers, not just sells services to writers

Comparison of  Vanity Press vs. Hybrid Publisher

2. Fake Literary Agents

Literary agents NEVER charge you for services, with the exception of copying and postage that doesn’t usually happen anymore now that manuscripts can be emailed. Any agent that charges a “reading fee” or “editing fees” is not a legit agent.

These scam agents often use professional-sounding titles, impressive but unverifiable client lists, and websites that mimic legit agencies. They may reach out via phone, email, or social media, praising your manuscript, even if it’s unpublished or hasn’t been widely shared, and offer to represent you, for a fee, of course.

Note that agents don’t get paid until authors do, which can be one to three years from signing an author. Because of this, some agents offer services OUTSIDE agenting that include editing or coaching to help pay their bills. BUT this is separate from their agenting services, and ethically, they won’t offer representation to you if you’ve hired them for editing or coaching. The scam agents will outright charge you for representation or pressure you into buying coaching or editing services.

Common Tactics Fake Agents Use:

• Charging a “reading fee” or “evaluation fee” to consider your manuscript
• Offering a representation package that includes editing or submission prep for a price (note that some agents will edit your MS, but they won’t charge you)
• Referring you to a paid editor, book coach, or consultant (often their own alias or a kickback arrangement)
• Promising to submit your book to Big Five publishers, but only after you pay for their in-house “book doctor” or developmental editing services
• Providing fake updates or “exclusive access” to publishers as long as you keep paying

Red Flags to Watch For:

• They ask for money upfront for reading, editing, marketing, or anything else
• They contacted you first, especially if you haven’t queried anyone (Note that if you’re an indie author selling very well, it’s possible an agent will reach out to you, but they won’t charge you for anything).
• They’re pushy, using urgent or flattery-heavy language like “You’re exactly the kind of author we’ve been looking for”
• They offer vague answers when asked about their sales history or current clients
• No online footprint or suspiciously generic websites and testimonials

What Legit Agents Do:

• Review queries and manuscripts for free
• Earn 15–20% commission only after they sell your work to a publisher
• Have a verifiable track record, often listed in databases like QueryTracker, Publisher’s Marketplace, or Manuscript Wishlist
• Never require you to pay for editing or submission materials as a condition of representation

3. Bogus Awards or Contests

Winning an award can be a powerful marketing tool because it lends credibility, gives you bragging rights, and can even boost sales. But not all contests are created equal. In fact, many awards are nothing more than money-making scams that prey on authors’ desire for recognition.

These bogus contests often send out mass invitations via email or social media, praising your book. They typically charge high entry fees, accept nearly every submission, and then try to upsell you on expensive “winner packages” like press releases, certificates, trophies, or marketing bundles that offer little to no real visibility.

Some authors don’t even realize they’re being scammed because the contest looks professional and even lists real authors who’ve won before, many of whom may not know what they were a part of.

How These Contests Work:

• Anyone can enter as long as they pay.
• Winners are often pre-determined or chosen arbitrarily (i.e. everyone gets a prize).
• “Judging panels” are rarely disclosed or are filled with vague or unverifiable names.
• After “winning,” authors are pushed to buy promotional materials, medallions, book fair placement, or overpriced features in shady catalogs.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• High or unclear entry fees (especially if the prize money is low or non-existent)
• No judging criteria or vague language like “based on merit”
• No list of judges or a panel that seems random and unqualified
• Everyone wins something, multiple tiers, honorable mentions, or unnecessary categories
• Immediate upselling after winning (e.g., “For just $399, we’ll promote you to 10,000 readers!”)
• Aggressive pressure to buy add-ons like plaques, medallions, and banners
• No real exposure, just a digital badge you have to pay extra to use

Legitimate Contests Will:

• Be transparent about judging criteria and selection process
• Clearly list qualified judges with publishing or literary credentials
• Offer reasonable fees, often under $100, with a clear breakdown of what your fee covers
• Publish past winners and their books, many of whom you can look up or contact
• Provide real benefits, such as cash prizes, industry exposure, or connection to agents or publishers

Some authors still choose to enter pay-to-win awards for the perceived value of a badge or title, and that’s a personal decision. But it’s important to go in with eyes wide open, knowing whether it’s truly prestigious or just prestige-priced.

4. Pay-for-Review Scams

Reviews are one of the most powerful tools in a romance author’s marketing toolbox. They influence buying decisions, boost visibility, and contribute to your book’s credibility. So it’s no surprise that scammers have found a way to exploit this by selling fake or inflated reviews in exchange for money.

These scammers often pose as review services, “book promotion experts,” or even readers on social media and offer glowing 5-star reviews for a fee. While it may be tempting, especially for new authors trying to gain traction, this is a major red flag.

Buying reviews is not only unethical, but it also violates Amazon’s review policy and can lead to your book being flagged, delisted, or your entire account being suspended.

 How These Scams Work:

• The scammer promises “honest” reviews but strongly implies they’ll be positive.
• They guarantee 4- or 5-star reviews within a few days.
• Some sell bulk packages (e.g., 20 reviews for $250) claiming “verified purchasers.”
• They often use fake accounts or bots to leave the reviews, or worse, plagiarized text (Today, many likely use AI to craft their reviews).
• After payment, reviews may never arrive, or they’ll be posted and quickly removed when flagged by platforms like Amazon.

In some cases, they will also offer “review swaps” or giveaways that are designed to manipulate the system without disclosure, which can also get you penalized.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Promises of “guaranteed 5-star reviews”
• High fees for quick visibility or bulk review packages
• Vague explanations about where or how the reviews will be posted
• Offers through unsolicited DMs or emails
• Use of platforms that violate terms of service, like Fiverr gigs that claim to “boost rankings overnight”
• Encouragement to post false reviews on your behalf

What about BookSprout, NetGalley, Kirkus, and Booksirens?

This is where things get confusing because these services cost money, which appear to break the “don’t pay for reviews” rules. But in the case of these resources you’re not paying for reviews per se. You’re paying for a service to distribute your book to reviewers who will leave an honest review, even if it’s a one-star.

What Legitimate Review Practices Look Like:

• ARC teams and street teams who receive a free copy in exchange for an optional honest review (It’s against Amazon TOS to require a review from a free ARC).
• Blog tours or review services that disclose gifted copies and don’t guarantee a positive rating
• NetGalley, BookSirens, and similar services that offer books to vetted readers, with no review required or biased results
• Reader magnets and newsletter swaps that encourage reviews but never demand them

Remember: Amazon’s guidelines specifically prohibit paid or incentivized reviews unless disclosed, and they monitor IP addresses and accounts for suspicious activity.

 Safer Ways to Get Reviews:

• Build your own review team of loyal readers and fans. You can do this through BookSprout which not only will distribute the book, but keep track of who has it, send reminders about posting a review, and cull your team if they don’t leave reviews.
• Use BookFunnel or StoryOrigin to distribute ARCs securely
• Apply to NetGalley via a co-op (cheaper than going solo)
• Participate in book blogger outreach or small influencer promos
• Run Goodreads giveaways, which often generate early buzz

Word of Warning:

If you’re caught violating review policies, even unknowingly, you can lose more than just the fake reviews. Amazon has permanently banned authors for repeated violations. As the number one-book seller in the world, not being on Amazon can make becoming a successful author harder.

Bottom line? If someone promises a glowing review for cash, walk away. Building reviews the ethical way may take time, but it’s safer, smarter, and builds true reader trust.

5. Overpriced or Useless Marketing Packages

You know I enjoy a good book drama discussed on YouTube, and recently, I came across one involving a woman who offered “coaching” for book sales, but not only failed to deliver on promises, she’d berate her clients and hang up on them. It’s no surprise she’s had to rebrand several times. She’s even profiled in Writer’s Beware.

But as I already mentioned, where there is a pain point, a scammer is ready to exploit it, and marketing is a huge pain point for many authors. These scammers often claim to specialize in helping authors build a platform, grow their audience, or hit bestseller lists. But instead of a real, strategic marketing plan, what you’re getting is often:

• Inflated fees for minimal results
• Copy-paste “press releases” nobody reads
• Radio or podcast interviews with irrelevant or made-up audiences
• Email blasts to outdated or non-targeted lists
• Social media shoutouts to ghost followers or bot accounts

What These Scams Typically Offer:

• “Amazon Bestseller Packages” – often relying on gaming obscure categories for a brief sales spike
• “Media Exposure Services” – claiming they’ll get your book on CNN, NPR, or “top book podcasts” with no proof
• “Author Platform Boosting” – where they post about your book to spammy Twitter/X or Instagram accounts with no engagement
• “Book Fair or Catalog Placement” – where your book is buried among hundreds in a generic PDF or catalog no one reads

Many romance authors are drawn in by the promise of big results without realizing that these services often don’t understand the genre, the market, or your audience.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Vague buzzwords like “guaranteed exposure,” “boost your success,” “get discovered,” or “exclusive platform promotion”
• No portfolio or vague case studies (“We helped hundreds of authors succeed!” with no names or links)
• No clear deliverables (They won’t tell you where or how your book will be promoted.)
• Massive price tags ($500 to $5,000+) for services that could be done for far less or for free
• Bundled packages with inflated value (e.g., “$10,000 worth of services for just $999!”)
• Pushy sales tactics or time-limited offers: “Only 2 slots left for our elite romance author promo”

What Legitimate Author Marketing Looks Like:

• Clear deliverables and timelines (e.g., 5 email newsletter features, 1 BookBub Ad campaign, etc.)
• Specific targeting to your niche (e.g., “Clean & Wholesome romance list of 10K+ engaged readers”)
• Transparent pricing and service menu
• Proven results with testimonials and portfolio examples (links to other authors or campaign metrics)
• Custom strategy that considers your brand, goals, and heat level—not a one-size-fits-all package

 Questions to Ask Before Paying for Marketing:

1. What exactly am I getting? (Be specific!)
2. Who will see my book and how will it be promoted?
3. Can I see examples of past campaigns in my genre?
4. Are the followers or subscribers targeted to romance readers?
5. Will I have access to performance metrics or post-campaign reporting?
6. Is there a contract or scope of work I can review?

If they can’t answer those questions clearly, it’s a red flag.

Safer Alternatives for Romance Authors:

• Reputable promo sites: BookBub, EReader News Today, Fussy Librarian, Robin Reads, Written Word Media
• Facebook/Instagram ads (once you learn how to use them properly)
• Newsletter swaps with other romance authors (Bookclicker and Bookfunnel have swap features or search for FB author swap groups)
• Your own ARC/review team for organic buzz
• Specialized blog tours or BookTok campaigns, if you can verify their reach and results

6. Fake Publishing or Movie Deals

I regularly get emails about turning one of my books into a movie. What cracks me up about it is that the book is a non-fiction writing for money book. Who wants to watch a moving on blogging and freelance writing? (I get calls about this book all the time too).

Imagine seeing your characters come to life on the screen. What author doesn’t want that? Scammers know it and will sent out the “We discovered your book!” pitch, an unsolicited message that claims your work has caught the eye of a major publisher, Hollywood producer, or international rights buyer.

Do not fall for this! This is the publishing world’s version of catfishing. They hook you with praise and promises, then bleed you with fees for “processing,” “legal review,” “translation,” or “representation.”

How These Scams Typically Work:

• You receive an email or DM that says something like:
  • “We’re interested in adapting your novel for a Netflix deal…”
  • “Your book has caught the attention of our foreign rights division…”
  • “We’re offering you a traditional publishing contract, just one step left to finalize…”
• You’re then told there’s a small fee required to process the contract, hire an agent, review legal terms, or package your book for submission.
• Some scammers go even further, posing as legitimate companies like Netflix, Paramount, or Amazon Publishing by spoofing email domains or creating near-identical logos.

But real publishers and film producers do not ask authors for money upfront, and legitimate foreign rights or licensing reps negotiate for you, not with you.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Unsolicited contact praising your book out of the blue, especially if your book has had limited visibility
• Vague affiliations, like “We work with streaming platforms” without naming any
• Immediate financial request: legal fees, translation costs, agent fees, etc.
• Fake urgency: “You must respond in 48 hours or we’ll offer this to another author.”
• Sketchy contracts that demand money before anything is delivered
• No verifiable names or credentials (and often fake ones, too)

Legitimate Deals Look Very Different:

• Real publishers and media agents do not charge authors to sign a contract
• Film/TV agents or rights managers are usually referred through your agent or approached through professional channels (like agencies or publishers, not cold DMs)
• Foreign rights deals are negotiated on your behalf by a literary agent or publishing house with a legal team, not handled via PayPal or wire transfer

How to Vet a Deal or Offer:

• Search the company and representative on Google, LinkedIn, and Writer Beware
• Ask author groups: “Has anyone heard of ___?”
• Request a full contract before discussing any payment or commitment
• Look for actual contact details, not Gmail addresses or WhatsApp messages
• If you have an agent or publishing lawyer, have them review any contract before signing

Scammers often say they’re affiliated with real companies (like Netflix or Simon & Schuster). Always verify those claims. Real executives don’t use Gmail addresses, and real deals come with proper legal vetting—not vague invoices.

7. Data Harvesting via Fake Anthologies or Collaborations

Multi-author anthologies and collaboration projects are a fun and creative way to build your audience, connect with peers, and generate buzz when they’re legitimate.

But scammers have caught on. Posing as “organizers,” they invite you to join a promising-sounding project, such as a holiday romance collection, a themed charity anthology, a boxed set for bestseller status. They might say they found you on social media or in a writing group, and they often use language like “exclusive,” “limited slots,” or “curated authors.”

But their real motive isn’t collaboration, it’s data harvesting.

Their end goal? To:

• Collect personal information like your full name, address, email, and tax ID
• Gain access to your social media accounts or mailing list
• Pitch you paid services once they’ve earned your trust
• Sometimes even reuse your work without permission

Because these offers are often wrapped in the friendly, supportive language of the romance author community, they can be harder to spot, especially for new or eager authors.

What These Scams Look Like:

• You receive an invitation via DM or email to join an “exciting” or “high-exposure” anthology or project
• You’re asked to fill out a form that includes personal or financial information
• No formal contract or clearly defined royalty structure is provided
• The organizer is vague about who else is participating or who owns the rights
• Later, you’re pitched expensive services like editing, marketing, coaching, or cover design, sometimes with pressure tactics or emotional manipulation

In some cases, the anthology may not exist at all. In others, it’s poorly executed, never launched, or you’re ghosted after providing your contribution.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• No contract or vague details about rights, distribution, or royalties
• No past projects or verifiable publishing track record
• No website or professional presence for the organizer
• You’re asked for sensitive information early (bank info, EIN, etc.)
• They request admin access to your social media or newsletter platform
• Sudden pitches for unrelated paid services (“We love your writing! Want to book a $997 publishing package?”)

Legit Anthology Organizers Will:

• Have a history of completed, successful projects
• Offer a clear and professional contract, outlining rights, deadlines, royalties, and expectations
• Be transparent about who’s involved, how the project will be published, and what’s required of you
• Use secure platforms for payment and communication
• Be open to questions and due diligence, not defensive when you ask

How to Protect Yourself:

• Ask for a contract before committing or submitting work
• Research the organizer’s name. Google it, check author groups, and verify past publications on Amazon
• Never give out your login credentials or mailing list access
• Be cautious if they ask for your EIN/SSN without explaining how royalties are handled
• Trust your gut. If the tone feels rushed, vague, or overly flattering, it’s worth a second look

Safer Ways to Join Collaborations:

• Participate in anthologies run by authors you know or who come recommended
• Join reputable author groups where projects are vetted and peer-reviewed
• Look for calls for submissions posted by small presses or known indie groups with a track record
• Use platforms like Duotrope or Submittable to find legit calls for anthology submissions

A true collaboration benefits everyone involved and protects all contributors. If someone is more interested in your data or your wallet than your story, it’s not a partnership, it’s a trap.

8. AI or Book Upload Services That Take Control

Publishing platforms like Amazon KDP, Draft2Digital, and IngramSpark have made it easier than ever for authors to self-publish professionally. But that simplicity also invites a new wave of scammers and opportunists who claim to help you upload and manage your book when in reality, they’re looking to take control of your accounts, rights, and royalties.

These so-called “assistants” or “automated publishing experts” may offer services like:

• Uploading your manuscript to multiple platforms
• Creating and managing your metadata (title, keywords, categories)
• Formatting and publishing your eBook or paperback
• Running AI-generated ads or optimizing your blurb

It sounds helpful, especially if you’re overwhelmed by tech or first-time publishing. But many of these providers ask for your login credentials, offer to “manage” your dashboard, or tie your book to their own publishing account, not yours. Once you hand over control, you may lose access to your:

• Royalties
• Publishing rights
• Amazon or D2D dashboards
• Ability to make changes or unpublish your book

What These Scams Look Like:

• A freelancer or service offers “done-for-you” publishing with no effort required on your part
• They ask for your KDP, D2D, or IngramSpark login info
• They tell you it’s easier if they “just upload it for you under their account”
• They offer to publish via “AI tools” that automatically format and publish, usually with no transparency
• They keep partial royalties, demand a percentage of sales, or charge a monthly fee for “managing” your book

In many cases, authors don’t realize they’ve lost control until they try to update pricing, fix a typo, or switch platforms and are told they can’t.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Requests for your Amazon or Draft2Digital login credentials
• Vague or bundled service packages that include “publishing support” or “account setup”
• They want to publish under their own name or dashboard
• They don’t let you retain full administrative access
• No formal agreement on rights, royalty splits, or account ownership
• They won’t show you how the backend works. They just promise to “take care of it”

 What Legitimate Services Will Do:

• Guide you through the publishing process without taking over your account
• Provide transparent formatting, blurb writing, or metadata assistance, but leave publishing to you
• Use shared screen tutorials, checklists, or walk-throughs to empower you, not trap you
• Encourage you to retain full control of your KDP, D2D, and ISBN information
• Offer contracts that respect your rights and intellectual property

Safer Alternatives:

• Use reputable freelancers for formatting or cover design, but always upload your files yourself
• Hire coaches or consultants who teach you how to do it without asking for login access
• Consider trusted author resources like:
  • Reedsy vetted professionals
  • BookFunnel for ARC distribution (not publishing)
  • SelfPubBookCovers or Vellum for cover and formatting
• If you need help, hire a VA (virtual assistant) with clear task-based agreements and never give them full account access

Your publishing dashboard is like your bank account. It controls your income, your intellectual property, and your ability to make career decisions. Never hand over the keys. If someone says, “I’ll take care of everything for you,” make sure they don’t mean ownership, royalties, and rights too.

9. Phishing Emails from Fake “Amazon” or “Goodreads”

Phishing scams are some of the most dangerous and deceptive tricks targeting authors. These scams don’t try to sell you something, they try to steal your credentials, gain access to your accounts, and potentially hijack your book income.

Scammers send emails pretending to be from Amazon KDP, Goodreads, social media, PayPal, or other platforms, claiming there’s a problem with your account. The message may sound urgent or alarming, such as:

• “Your Amazon KDP account is under review for suspicious activity.”
• “Your book has been reported and may be removed unless action is taken.”
• “You’ve violated Goodreads’ community guidelines. Click here to appeal.”

They’ll include a link that looks legitimate at first glance, but when you click, it takes you to a fake login page that captures your username and password. Once they have your credentials, they can:

• Access your royalties
• Change or unpublish your books
• Lock you out of your KDP or other accounts
• Even request tax or bank info under your name

These phishing attempts are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Many mimic official formatting, logos, and language, but there are still clues if you know what to look for.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Urgent language: “Immediate action required,” “Your account will be deleted,” or “Final warning”
• Misspellings or awkward grammar in subject lines or body text
• Suspicious sender email addresses, like kdp-alerts @ amz-secure.com instead of @amazon.com
• Links that don’t match the domain (hover over link but don’t click to preview)
• Generic greetings like “Dear user” instead of your name or pen name
• Attachments claiming to be “proof” or “violation reports”

 What These Scams Look Like:

A typical scam email might say:

Dear Author,

Your account has been flagged for violating Amazon’s content guidelines. If you do not appeal within 24 hours, your books will be unpublished.

Click here to review the claim: [Fake Amazon Link]

Sincerely,
Amazon KDP Compliance Team

It might even include Amazon logos and formatting that looks legitimate. But a quick look at the email address or URL shows it’s not from Amazon.

What Real Platforms Will Do:

• Amazon and Goodreads never ask for passwords or login verification through email links
• If there’s a real issue with your account, they will:
  • Use your official author name or pen name
  • Ask you to log in through the actual site (not a link in the email)
  • Use a professional domain, like @amazon.com, @goodreads.com, or @draft2digital.com

How to Stay Safe:

1. Never click on links in unsolicited emails claiming account violations. Go directly to the website (open your browser and type in the website) and login from there.
2. Hover over links to check the actual URL destination (does it really say amazon.com?)
3. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Amazon account for extra protection
4. Bookmark official sites like KDP, Goodreads, and Draft2Digital and always access them from those bookmarks
5. Report phishing attempts:
   • Amazon

Note that phishing doesn’t stop at email. Some scammers also send fake messages through Facebook or Instagram, pretending to be KDP reps or customer service bots. Amazon never conducts account business over social media.

Don’t let urgency or fear cloud your judgment. If something feels off, it probably is. Always pause, verify, and protect your login info like your career depends on it—because it does.

10. Fake Freelancers on Social Media

With social media becoming a central hub for author networking, it’s no surprise that scammers have flooded platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), posing as professional freelancers. They often pretend to be cover designers, editors, formatters, or book marketers, but they’re running a con.

These fake freelancers often:

• Steal portfolios from real designers or editors
• Create fake testimonials
• Use AI-generated sample covers or mockups without disclosing that’s what they’re using
• Demand payment upfront through unsafe methods like CashApp, Venmo (Friends & Family), Western Union, or cryptocurrency
• Disappear after being paid or deliver a low-quality, unusable product

Some even repackage free templates as custom work, or resell your book files without permission.

What These Scams Typically Look Like:

• A direct message (DM) out of nowhere: “Hi, I saw you’re an author. I’m a professional book designer—want a gorgeous cover for your next book?”
• A portfolio filled with beautiful covers or reviews, all stolen from real professionals
• They offer discounts for “new clients” or “limited-time bundles” that pressure you to act fast
• No contract, no invoice, just a request for payment through non-refundable channels

This is especially common in the romance community, where high-frequency releases often require authors to hire freelancers on tight deadlines.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Contacting you first through unsolicited DMs or comments
• No website or only a basic social media page
• No contract or scope of work
• Insist on payment via untraceable or risky platforms (e.g., CashApp, crypto, PayPal Friends & Family)
• Unwilling to offer a sample or reference
• They discourage phone calls or Zoom meetings, everything stays in chat
• Their “portfolio” includes work you’ve seen before under another name

What Legitimate Freelancers Will Do:

• Have a clear website or professional profile (even if it’s hosted on platforms like Reedsy or Upwork)
• Use contracts or service agreements that outline:
  • Deliverables
  • Timeline
  • Revision policy
  • Payment terms
• Offer secure payment methods like PayPal Goods & Services, Stripe, or invoices via platforms like HoneyBook or FreshBooks
• Provide references or client testimonials that you can verify
• Allow video calls or respond professionally via email, not just DMs
• Are open to questions, quotes, and samples before beginning work

How to Protect Yourself:

1. Always request a contract or at minimum a service agreement that outlines expectations
2. Use traceable payment methods that offer buyer protection
3. Reverse image search their portfolio samples to make sure they’re not stolen
4. Ask other authors for referrals. Word of mouth is one of the safest ways to hire freelancers
5. Don’t fall for “too good to be true” pricing. If someone offers a full custom cover, edits, and marketing strategy for $100, it’s a scam
6. Join vetted marketplaces like:
   • Reedsy
   • Upwork
   • ALLi’s Partner Directory
   • Facebook groups with verified service providers and moderator oversight

Safer Hiring for Romance Authors:

• Build a freelancer roster of trusted professionals over time
• Start small with a test project or audit before committing to a large job
• Always confirm you retain rights to the work, especially for design and formatting

Your cover, edits, and launch materials represent your brand and hard work. Don’t hand them over to someone with no proof of experience.

11. Conference and Event Scams

It’s no secret I love conferences and encourage all authors to attend them. Events offer a perfect opportunity for networking, learning, pitching to agents, and connecting with fellow authors. But scammers have found a way to exploit that enthusiasm by organizing fake writing conferences, retreats, or award galas that exist solely to take your money, gather your information, or upsell overpriced services.

These scams often appear legitimate, with sleek websites, impressive-sounding names, and even “testimonials” from fake attendees. Some are purely fake, while others are poorly run vanity events that charge high fees for very little value.

Note that some events just fail from poor planning and execution, as I believe what happened to the Million Lives Book Festival and Readers Take Denver events.  But the first event I signed up for, the organizer took the money and ran.

What These Scams Typically Offer:

• Invitations to speak, attend, or be honored at a conference or award ceremony you’ve never heard of
• Steep registration fees with vague details about venue, speakers, or schedule
• Offers to sell you award packages, book tables, or press exposure
• “Speaker” or “VIP” packages that cost hundreds, or thousands, of dollars
• Limited or no refunds, last-minute venue changes, or events that never take place

In some cases, they even use stolen branding from real events to trick authors into registering or submitting payment.

Red Flags to Watch For:

• You receive an unsolicited invitation to speak, attend, or receive an award
• No clear agenda, speaker list, or location details
• The event website lacks basic contact info or verifiable history
• The “organization” behind it has no presence in the author community
• You’re asked to pay large upfront fees for participation or “award packages”
• You can’t find any real photos, reviews, or attendees from previous events

What Legitimate Conferences Look Like:

• Hosted by known organizations (e.g., RWA, WFWA, SCBWI, or recognized indie communities)
• Offer detailed schedules, confirmed speaker lineups, and professional communications
• Allow for early bird pricing, transparent refunds, and clear terms
• Have a history of past events with reviews or social proof
• Promote learning, networking, and professionalism, not just flashy promises

How to Protect Yourself:

1. Research the event name and organizer. Google them with terms like “scam,” “review,” or “complaints”
2. Ask author communities: “Has anyone been to ___?”
3. Check whether speakers or sponsors listed on the site actually support the event (some scammers list names without permission)
4. Don’t pay for “VIP status,” “award dinners,” or “book tables” without vetting
5. Be wary of virtual-only conferences that charge premium prices but don’t deliver usable content

Safer Ways to Attend or Pitch at Conferences:

• Stick with events hosted by well-known writer organizations or reputable indie networks
• Attend virtual events hosted by communities you already trust (like 20BooksTo50K, Inkers Con, or local RWA chapters)
• Look for recorded sessions or sample workshops to preview content quality
• Budget for educational value and ROI, not vanity perks

A great conference should leave you inspired, educated, and more connected to your writing community, not broke, confused, or ghosted. If it sounds too good to be true or no one in your circles has heard of it…do some digging before you hit “Register.”

How to Spot a Scam

Scams can be slick, but there are always signs. Here’s what to watch for:

• Unsolicited Contact: They reach out to you, often via email or social media DMs.
• Upfront Payment: Reputable agents, publishers, and reviewers don’t ask for money up front.
• Too Good to Be True: Big promises with little detail, like “make your book a bestseller overnight!”
• No Verifiable Track Record: No testimonials, website, or real clients you can confirm.
• High-Pressure Tactics: Phrases like “act now” or “limited opportunity” are meant to rush your decision.
• Shady Payment Methods: They request PayPal “friends and family,” CashApp, or cryptocurrency, making it hard to dispute if you get scammed.

How to Research a Resource or Service Before You Say Yes

Before you pay for a service, sign a contract, or hand over your manuscript, it’s essential to do your homework. Here’s how to vet a resource or person to determine if they’re legitimate and trustworthy:

1. Google Their Name + “Scam” or “Review”

This simple step often reveals red flags. Look for complaints on forums like Absolute Write, Reddit’s r/selfpublish, or Writer Beware. Be cautious if you find:

• Multiple complaints with similar patterns
• Vague or repetitive five-star reviews on questionable websites

2. Check for a Professional Website and Portfolio

A legit service provider should have a clear, professional site with:

• Examples of past work (covers, edits, press releases, etc.)
• Testimonials from named authors (Google them!)
• Clear pricing, services, and contact info

Red flag: Only social media presence, no trackable clients, or fake testimonials.

3. Ask for Author References

If you’re unsure, request to speak with a previous client. Legit editors, marketers, and designers won’t hesitate to provide referrals. Reach out to those authors independently to verify.

4. Look Them Up on Reputable Databases

Use these trusted sites to check their track record:

• Writer Beware’s Thumbs Down List
• ALLi Watchdog Services Directory
• Reedsy vetted professionals

5. Join Author Groups and Ask

Communities like:

• Facebook groups (e.g., Wide for the Win, Romance Author Support)
• Reddit’s r/romanceauthors or Reddit’s r/selfpublish
• Forums on KBoards or 20BooksTo50K

These are great places to ask, “Has anyone worked with ___? What was your experience?”

6. Check Their Payment Terms

Legitimate professionals:

• Use contracts or service agreements
• Offer secure payment methods (PayPal Goods & Services, Stripe, etc.)
• Do not demand full payment before delivery for large projects

Red flag: Requests for friends & family payments or non-refundable fees with no clear scope of work.

What To Do If You’re Targeted

If you suspect a scam, or fell for one, you may not get your money back, but you can fight back:

1. Stop Communication: Don’t respond further or send more information. Block their contact.

2. Report It: 

• Writer Beware
• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• Amazon or any platform involved
• Facebook/Instagram if it was through social media

3. Protect Your Accounts

• Change passwords immediately.
• Enable two-factor authentication.
• Check your KDP and social logins for any unusual activity.

4. Warn Others: Share your experience with fellow writers. It helps others stay safe and builds awareness.

As romance authors, we wear many hats, and that makes us vulnerable to those who prey on our ambition and trust. But knowledge is power. By staying aware of common scams, questioning offers that seem too good to be true, and building a network of trusted author friends, you can protect your career and thrive without falling victim.

Have you encountered a scam? Share your story in the comments or join our romance author community to connect with others who’ve been there.