Guardian publishes Poonam's investigation into literary scams targeting authors
1 Oct 29 1:00 AM · 10d ago · 4 articles · 3 posts · 3 sources · development 1 of 1
The Guardian publishes Poonam's detailed investigation revealing the scope and mechanics of literary scams. The piece documents how writers are being bombarded daily with invitations from fake book groups and offers to publicize their work, and identifies aspiring authors as particularly vulnerable targets. Poonam's decade of reporting on transnational fraud provides context for understanding the broader scamming infrastructure.
“This was undoubtedly a scam. Genuine book clubs don't ask for money from authors. But who was behind it?”
Snigdha Poonam, Journalist and fraud researcher · mastodon ↗Snigdha Poonam Journalist and fraud researcher
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4 outlets Fake film deals and emails from top agents: who is behind the explosion in literary scams?
first by Guardian Media, 10d ago · also Guardian Business, Guardian Culture, Guardian Africa
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Fascinating article in @theguardian.com today abt literary scams. Academics & their publishers are being targeted too - I've heard of emails impersonating Editors as well as book club & literary festival scams. If in doubt do speak to your publisher for advice.
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For the scamming industry, aspiring authors can be a soft touch https://www. theguardian.com/news/ng-intera ctive/2026/oct/29/paid-for-book-clubs-fake-film-deals-emails-explosion-literary-scams-authors
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