As online art sales grow, so too do the tactics of scammers who prey on independent creators. A particularly deceptive and increasingly common scam is now targeting artists who sell their work online — often leaving them out of pocket and emotionally shaken.
Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself.
🎭 How the Scam Works
It usually begins with good news: someone has “purchased” your artwork through an online platform, or you’re informed that sales have been made on your behalf. You’re told that the funds are being held for you — but before you can receive them, there’s a catch.
A transaction or withdrawal fee is required.
You’re told to pay this fee — often £100 to £300 — using cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. Sometimes, you’re even reassured that “the buyer already paid part of it,” creating a false sense of trust or urgency to complete the transaction.
Once you send the crypto, the goalposts move. A second fee appears, or a “tax issue” is raised. No matter how much you pay, you will never receive your funds — because there were never any to begin with.
🚩 Red Flags to Watch For
Cryptocurrency Payment Demands
No legitimate gallery, agent, or platform will ever demand cryptocurrency to release your earnings.
“Held Funds” Tactic
Reputable platforms deduct fees from your sale proceeds, not upfront or post-sale.
Vague or Unverifiable Buyers
If you’re told a buyer has already paid part of your fee, ask for receipts. Scammers often invent buyers to legitimise their demands.
Poor Website or Communication Quality
Misspellings, lack of social proof, or platforms with no visible presence beyond email contact should raise concerns.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
Never send money to release earnings.
Real platforms subtract fees from your payout — they do not demand payment to unlock it.
Verify platforms independently.
Don’t rely on links given to you. Search for reviews and scam alerts on your own.
Be cautious with cryptocurrency.
Crypto is unregulated and nearly impossible to recover once sent. It’s a favourite of scammers for that reason.
Use secure, known platforms
If a site is brand-new or you’ve never heard of it, do your homework before engaging.
Trust your instincts.
If something feels off — too rushed, too complicated, or too good to be true — it probably is.
🇬🇧 UK and 🇺🇸 US Artists: Where to Report
If you believe you’ve been targeted or defrauded:
UK artists: Report it to Action Fraud
US artists: Report to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Gather any correspondence, wallet addresses, screenshots, and transaction details as evidence.
It’s a wonderful thing to sell your art. That moment of recognition and reward is powerful — which is why scammers target it. By staying informed and vigilant, you can protect your earnings, your peace of mind, and your creative future.
Please feel free to share this article with fellow artists and creators — awareness is our best defence.
