If you post artistic or creative photos on social media, you may have already received a message like this: "I love your photos. I would like to use one as the reference for a painting. I am willing to pay you well for permission." It sounds flattering, maybe even exciting. It is a scam.
Freelance artists, illustrators, and graphic designers are being targeted by a scam campaign operating under the names of legitimate auction houses and fine art galleries. The scheme combines classic advance fee scam mechanics with cryptocurrency-era language designed to sound credible to creative professionals.
For artisans, markets and fairs serve as vital platforms that provide financial support, professional exposure, and opportunities to connect with customers in a competitive creative economy.