How to spot a PR scam

“Is this anything?” is a question PR agency professionals see a lot. This simple sentence is often at the top of a forwarded email that outlines an “incredible opportunity” for the contacted individual or brand to gain media exposure.

Industry professionals are familiar with these as scams and the red flags that signal bad intentions as rarely does the initial outreach disclose the full story, or the absurd fees associated with the proposed appearance. If a scam does mention the price, it works diligently to bury that information.

The opportunity will often seem impressive at first glance—many have ties to notable celebrities. Kathy Ireland, Dennis Quaid, Mario Lopes, and Rob Lowe are just a few of the A- and B-listers who have lent their names to such schemes.

Here’s one example:

“…your company caught my editor’s attention, and based on what you are doing at Segal Communications, we would like to discuss having you appear on The DotCom Magazine Entrepreneur Spotlight Zoom Interview Series. We have interviewed many Inc.500 Executives, Ted Talk presenters, ABC Shark Tank participants, and many other leading founders and CEOs on the show! Sarah, we really think you would be a great interview for the series!“