There have been reports of scams targeting photographers and artists, particularly involving fraudulent buyers who offer to purchase artwork with cryptocurrency or other virtual items of value.
Some common scam tactics include:
Phantom Buyers: Scammers pretend to be interested buyers, using fake checks or unreliable payment methods, resulting in losses of both artwork and money.
NFT Scams: Some scammers approach artists with offers to assist in minting NFTs. These scams often require upfront payments or request digital files without delivering promised returns.
Fake Grants and Opportunities: Artists may receive emails about exclusive grants that require application fees or personal information, exploiting their aspirations.
To protect yourself, consider these tips:
Always verify the authenticity of buyers before engaging in transactions.
Be wary of any requests for upfront fees; legit opportunities don’t typically ask for this.
Safeguard your personal and banking information.
Staying informed and vigilant is crucial to avoid falling victim to these scams.
For more information, you can read about these issues here:
Kristie Keleshian. (2024). Brooklyn artist says he lost $120,000 in a crypto scam. District attorney’s office warns they’re “very common.” CBS New York. https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/brooklyn-cryptocurrency-nft-scam/
Digital Scammers Might Be Haunting Your Art Business…Here’s How to Stay Safe. (2024). Artwork Archive. https://www.artworkarchive.com/blog/digital-scammers-might-be-haunting-your-art-business-here-s-how-to-stay-safe
Brooklyn Eagle Staff. (2024). DA shuts down crypto scam that cost artist, 85, life’s savings. Brooklyn Eagle. https://brooklyneagle.com/articles/2024/12/06/da-shuts-down-crypto-scam-that-cost-artist-85-lifes-savings/
#ArtScams, #NFTs, #Photography, #ProtectArtists, #Cryptocurrency, #ScamAlert, #OnlineSafety
