Beware of Upfront Fees in Publishing: A Scam to Watch Out For

The Rising Scam in Publishing

Many authors, like myself, have faced a surprising twist in the publishing process. Recently, Yucca Publishing reached out through Brokers AB, claiming to offer a no upfront payment option. However, it wasn't as simple as it seemed. The proposal came with a price tag of 410,000, including a 17,000 fill for a 'Distribution Partnership' with Ingram.

Their strategy was cunning and confusing, but ultimately selfish. They initially offered to only pay 50, then 75, but demanded commission as a payment. This demand for a massive 120,000 commission from me was their primary goal. I suggested they pay the entire amount upfront, but they refused. Their motivation was to get money from me and use other excuses to back out of the deal. Their tactics are clever, but fundamentally, it's a scam.

Be Wary of Upfront Fee Demands

While there are legitimate publishers who may require some initial payment, it’s crucial to be cautious about upfront fee demands. Some publishers may make their money through the author or sales to authors, rather than direct sales to readers. It’s important to question if their business model aligns with genuine publishing goals or if it's simply a way to scam unsuspecting authors.

Avoiding the Scammers

If you encounter similar scams, it's best to avoid such publishers. They will likely put your book in storage, never aim to sell it, and focus solely on obtaining money from aspiring authors. Their strategy is to ensure they get their fee upfront and then find any reason to terminate the deal. They are no different from other fraudulent entities in the publishing world.

Do Not Engage with Scammers

It's crucial to recognize the signs of a scam early on. If a publishing company demands upfront fees, make sure to research them thoroughly. Fictional publications or publishers known for scamming can be detected through research, reviews, and contacts in the industry. Additionally, be wary of companies with vague or misleading information on their website or no clear address.

If you suspect being scammed, report the incident to your local authorities and relevant organizations. Protect yourself by changing your contact information and avoiding any further dealings with the fraudsters. Stay vigilant and informed to avoid falling into the trap of publishing scams.

Conclusion

In the world of publishing, the line between legitimate and fraudulent practices is sometimes blurred. However, clear signs of scams, such as upfront fees for questionable services, should raise red flags. By staying informed and proceeding with caution, authors can protect themselves from such scams. Remember, no reputable publishing company will ask for an upfront payment unless it's for a specific, transparent service or product. Always do your due diligence before engaging with any publishing company.