Phishing Scam Targets Publishers and Agents
In the interest of keeping our readers informed on aspects of the craft and business of writing, socalwritersshowcase.com would like to share the following information of note:
Publishers, agents, scouts, and industry publications report a worldwide phishing scam that uses spoofed websites, email addresses, and even signatures of reputable firms and individuals to request manuscripts for fraudulent purposes. When scammers succeed in misrepresenting themselves, it appears that they sell these works as e-books and online, violating copyright and without acquiring the material legally.
They seem to operate with an inside knowledge of how publishing works and how transactions are made.
The industry has long known about these practices, generally preparing new hires to recognize and prevent them, and employing sophisticated internet security systems. For example, a Penguin Random House spokesperson stated, “Employee awareness and training, particularly with respect to phishing scams, is a critical component of our company’s cyber-security program.”
In October, the Association of American Representatives (AAR) put out a letter addressing this situation, now in its second year at least. Evidence indicates that the swindle began in Europe and Asia and has reached the United Kingdom and United States.