Dealing with Online Scammers on DeviantArt: A Guide for Creators

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When you're an artist looking to showcase and sell your work on DeviantArt, the platform offers an incredible space for creativity and collaboration. However, unfortunately, not everyone uses it ethically or honestly. In this article, we'll discuss how to identify and deal with online scammers like the one mentioned in the post, the importance of reporting such incidents, and the steps you should take to protect yourself from falling victim to their schemes.

Recognizing the Signs of a Scammer

The individual you mentioned seems quite familiar with creating false promises, expecting upfront payment for projects that might not even materialize or that you're unsure of. Here are a few signs that might indicate someone is a scammer on platforms like DeviantArt:

Overly eager to receive payment before any work is done Requests for your own artwork as payment No clear project details or deadline Unrealistic or unfinished testimonials or reviews Poor grammar and spelling in their communications No visible portfolio on their profile

What to Do If You Suspect a Scammer

It's crucial to take immediate action to protect yourself as soon as you recognize the signs of a scammer. Here are some steps you should follow:

1. Do Not Engage in Further Conversations

The first step to take is to totally ignore him. Do not engage in any further conversations. This means:

Avoid responding to any further messages or emails from the individual Do not accept any file or link shares from this user If you received any artwork or sketches from them, consider it void as it might be used in their scam

2. Block the User

To prevent any further contact and protect your account, you should block the user. This will:

Prevent them from messaging you or sending you any content Inform other users that you have reported them as a scammer

3. Report the User to DeviantArt

Reporting the user to DeviantArt is a critical step. Here's how to do it:

Navigate to the profile of the suspect user Look for the 'Report' option, which might be a link or a button in the user profile Select the category that best describes the issue (e.g., spam, harassment, fraud) Provide as much detail as possible about the scam, including examples or screenshots of the problematic conversation or any artwork they might have shared

4. Keep a Record of Incidents

Documenting all interactions with the suspect user will be helpful for both your own reference and in the event you need to provide additional information to DeviantArt or law enforcement. This should include:

The date and time of each conversation Copy any communications (if possible) and save them in a secure location Note any instances of suspicious behavior or questionable requests

Protecting Yourself from Future Scams

After dealing with a scammer, here are some general tips to help you protect yourself and your work in the future:

1. Verify the Authenticity of Any Requests

Always verify the authenticity of any requests or offers before making any commitments. This includes:

Checking the user's profile for a proper portfolio and large number of followers Looking up the user on other social media platforms to see if they have a consistent profile Reading reviews or testimonials from other users to see if they are genuine

2. Use Payment Gateways with Protection

When entering payment information, ensure you're using a secure and reputable platform, such as PayPal or an escrow service, to reduce the risk of scams.

3. Stay Informed

Regularly check for updates or scam alerts from DeviantArt and other online communities. Stay informed about the latest tactics used by scammers.

Conclusion

Protecting your creativity and your hard-earned money is essential when working online. By being proactive about recognizing and addressing potential scams, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of platforms like DeviantArt without putting your work or finances at risk. If you ever encounter a scammer, remember to stay vigilant, report the incident, and take the necessary steps to safeguard your online presence.