You just got an email from a publisher praising your manuscript and offering to publish it right away. It feels exciting… but something doesn’t sit right. Welcome to the world of publishing scams.
Every year, thousands of authors fall for deceptive companies disguised as legitimate publishers. They use slick marketing, fake promises, and shady contracts to take your money and leave you with little in return.
This guide will walk you through 10 major red flags to help you avoid scam publishers and protect your writing career.
10 Red Flags of a Scam Publisher
1. They Ask for Upfront Publishing Fees
Legit publishers don’t charge you to publish. If someone asks for money to “accept” your book, you’re likely dealing with a vanity press or scam.
2. They Promise Guaranteed Bestseller Status
No one can guarantee your book will be a bestseller — especially not in return for a fee. Claims like “We guarantee 5-star Amazon reviews” or “Your book will hit #1” are scams.
3. They Accept Every Manuscript
Reputable publishers have a submission process and reject manuscripts that don’t meet their standards. If they accept everything instantly, that’s a huge red flag.
4. They Pressure You to Sign Quickly
Scammers create a false sense of urgency. If you’re told you need to sign “today” or risk losing the deal, stop and walk away.
Related: Book Publishers to Avoid
5. They Offer Vague or One-Sided Contracts
Scam publishers often hide the details. Watch for:
- Unclear royalty structures
- No mention of rights ownership
- Loopholes that lock you in
6. Their Website Is Slick But Lacks Real Info
Some scammers invest in beautiful websites, but lack transparency. Look for:
- No team bios or contact info
- No verifiable published books
- Fake author testimonials
7. They Hide or Fake Their Reviews
They might flood Google with fake 5-star reviews or show glowing author testimonials that can’t be verified.
8. They Sell Overpriced Publishing Packages
Many scammers bundle overpriced services (editing, cover design, marketing) with little to no quality.
9. They Offer Useless Marketing Services
Be wary of:
- Press releases to nowhere
- Social media posts with zero engagement
- Vague “global distribution”
You deserve measurable, real marketing help — not fluff.
10. They Don’t Reveal Who They Are
No physical address? No team? No LinkedIn presence? That’s suspicious. If you can’t find who runs the company, don’t trust it.
What to Do If You Suspect a Scam
If your instincts are telling you something’s wrong, listen to them. Here’s how to move forward:
- Stop communicating until you finish your research.
- Search the company name + “scam” or “complaints.”
- Use watchdog sites like Writer Beware.
- Ask questions — scammers hate that.
- Compare offers with trusted platforms.
Conclusion
A scam publisher doesn’t always look like a scam. That’s why recognizing these 10 red flags is so important.
Your book deserves a legitimate path to readers — not a dead end wrapped in false promises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are all publishers who charge money scams?
Not necessarily. In self-publishing, you’re hiring people to help you. A scam occurs when there’s deception, poor quality, or manipulation.
Q2: Can a scam publisher look legitimate?
Absolutely. Many have professional websites and strong branding. That’s why research is essential.
Q3: How do I check if a publisher is legit?
Google them, check their reviews, contact authors they’ve published, and use watchdog sites.
Q4: What if I already signed the contract?
Consult a lawyer if possible, and gather all documentation. You may still be able to exit or dispute the agreement.