7 Scams That Could Wreck Your Writing Career
Being an author isn’t just about writing page turning stories; it’s also about being business savvy and navigating everything that goes with it. Believe me, there are a minefield of scams out there and they’re growing all the time. So if you’re thinking of writing a book, or are already promoting it, then it’s in your interest to keep up to date with what’s going on.
Because from fake agents to AI-generated imposters, the literary world has its fair share of con artists. Every single day I roll my eyes as I receive the latest ‘opportunity’ of some kind. Here are the most prevalent scams in 2025 and how you can safeguard yourself against them.
1. Fake Literary Agents & Publishers
Ooh this one breaks my heart because I know some newbie authors who have fallen foul of it. You’ve finally finished your book and you’re SO excited to get it out there. You’re submitting to agents and publishers, wondering why you’ve not heard anything back, then you get what you’ve always dreamed of – an offer for your work with a contract, too. These scams are mean, nasty and cruel. They play on your emotions and promise you the world…in exchange for a price.
Scammers often pose as reputable agents or publishers, offering lucrative deals that require upfront fees for services like editing or marketing. Legitimate agents earn through commissions, not by charging authors directly. Always research and verify the credentials of anyone offering representation. This is hugely important: if you do receive a contract in the post, you must get it checked out first. Yes, you can publish without an agent but it can leave you vulnerable. A good agent will check your contracts with a fine tooth comb. So how do you know if the offer is real or not? A quick search online can reveal a lot. Search author forums like Absolute Write, blogs like Writer Beware and Facebook writing groups too (join our private student group and I’ll happily check the offer myself). Still ready to sign that contract? Get it checked with the Society of Authors first. Even a reputable publisher can have some questionable clauses. Protect yourself and your future books.
2. AI Generated Impersonations
With advancements in AI, some fraudsters are creating low-quality books under established authors’ names, leading to brand dilution and reader confusion. Regularly monitor platforms like Amazon and Goodreads for unauthorised listings under your name. Author impersonations are rife. Be vigilant and warn your readers if you have an established platform. If you don’t have a platform, then why not? Youtube is another hotspot where many pirated audio books are turning up. I search my author name every month. The good news is that it’s quick and easy to issue a takedown notice. Drop a comment if you’d like to know how. As for pirated books (I’m looking at you, Meta) it’s like Whack-a-mole. I don’t waste my time worrying about it, because I could spend all day and night on the internet searching them out and more would pop up in their place. I guide readers to libraries or Kindle deals. Many of my books are free on Prime but at least I get a little income from the subscribe. Those pennies add up and readers are supporting their favourite authors, not dealing with the criminals behind pirated books.
3. Hollywood Movie Scams
It’s every author’s dream – including mine! The allure of seeing your book on the big screen can be so tempting. Scammers exploit this by posing as film producers or agents, requesting fees for pitch decks or screenplay adaptations. If only it was that easy! Genuine film deals are rarer than hen’s teeth and certainly don’t require upfront payments from authors. My agent deals with that side of things for me and I’m so glad that I can forward all such enquiries to her.
4. Unsolicited Offers
Beware of unsolicited offers claiming to feature your work in renowned publications or bookstores, often mimicking entities like The New York Times or Barnes & Noble. These scams typically involve hefty fees and deliver nothing in return.
5. Review Bombing
Some authors have faced threats of negative reviews unless they pay a ransom. Platforms like Goodreads have been hotspots for such activities, with coordinated attacks aimed at tarnishing an author’s reputation. Stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly. Equally, you’ll receive messages from ‘readers’ offering thousands of positive reviews. Whatever you do, please don’t fall for this, and please don’t be tempted to review your own books. It can leave you in bad standing with Amazon and if it gets out, it can even end your writing career.
6. Phishing Unpublished Manuscripts
There have been cases where scammers have impersonated editors or agents to obtain unpublished manuscripts, possibly for personal gain or unauthorized distribution. Always verify the identity of anyone requesting your work, especially if unsolicited. Be sceptical, always. Know who you’re dealing with before you give your precious work away.
7. Scam Professional Services
Scammers offer overpriced and ineffective marketing services, promising significant exposure. These can include paid interviews, press releases, or book trailers. Research any service thoroughly and look for reviews from other authors before committing. If you get a publishing deal, it’s your publisher’s job to promote your book. Or do it yourself on social media. Be careful before parting with your hard earned cash.
Protect Yourself
Protecting Yourself: Tips for Authors
Research: Before engaging with any agent, publisher, or service, conduct thorough research.
Avoid Upfront Payments: Legitimate professionals earn through commissions or royalties, not fees. Even if it’s a ‘self publishing service,’ you can usually do it far better and cheaper yourself.
Stay Informed: Regularly visit platforms like Writer Beware for updates on scams.
Secure Your Work: Use trusted platforms for manuscript submissions and avoid sharing full works unsolicited.
Engage with the Community: Join author forums and groups to share experiences and gather insights.
Basically, don’t part with your money or bank details until you’ve checked them out. Better still, if you need a service don’t go with a cold-caller, go for a personal recommendation from someone you know and trust instead. We are here to support you if you have any queries, let us know. Have you been scammed? Please share below.
