Scammers are constantly evolving and becoming more innovative in their attempts to pursue online crime. They use platforms like GigSalad to contact performers in an attempt to defraud them. We have several security systems in place, and protecting our members is important to us. However, sometimes bad apples get through, so it’s essential to know how to spot a scammer.
Catch the red flags
Being able to recognize red flags when receiving leads will help you avoid wasting valuable time or becoming the victim of an online scammer. We’ve put together some of the common things we see on our platform.
Immediately asking to communicate off-site
When a scammer is able to breach GigSalad’s security systems, they will quickly request to talk to you directly via email or text message.
They routinely provide email addresses that don’t match the name on the lead. Or, they provide a phone number that doesn’t match the area code of the event location. Most scammers will ask you to avoid phone calls or to text them.
Basically, scammers have learned that platforms like GigSalad have extra layers of security that make it difficult to hustle. Their #1 goal is to get you to communicate and interact off-platform.
Requesting a Zoom or Google Meet
Watch out for individuals asking to discuss event and booking details over a Google Meet or Zoom. Especially early in the process. This may seem harmless, but their goal is to obtain your email address. Once they do, they attempt to compromise your device by asking you to click on a fake Google Meet or Zoom link.
“Do you have any availability for a Zoom or Google Meet today to discuss together? If so, please let me know what time works best so we can discuss the details better. Also, please share your email so I can send you the invite link. I’m looking forward to speaking with you soon!“
Limited information
Event planners can be notorious for not providing enough information in their initial inquiry; however, a lead from a scammer is often especially sparse. It’s important to pay attention to details like the date and time. For example, a wedding reception at 2 PM on a Wednesday should set off some alarm bells.
Excessive flattery
We all enjoy a nice compliment. However, a fake lead from a scammer may be excessively complimentary. Unfortunately, if a gig seems too good to be true, it probably is. Here’s an example of a message we have seen many scammers use:
“Thanks for reaching out I’m so glad that you are available to perform. I checked your profile, saw your video and discovered you’re very talented and we are privileged to have you perform at our wedding ceremony. As for the fee of $217. It’s within our budget ,Furthermore we can continue this conversation at blank@gmail.com”
Posing as GigSalad
Scammers have posed as GigSalad support in the past, even uploading our logo as their profile photo. Then, they used that disguise to phish for your personal information. We’ll never contact you via the GigSalad inbox or request verification from you from a link.
Avoiding payments through GigSalad
We understand that some legitimate clients, especially those working for schools or other entities with unique accounting practices, have to send money outside of GigSalad. However, when an event planner immediately asks to pay with a check or money order in a short message without explanation, you should consider it a huge red flag.
“I hope you are available and accept checks as a mode of payment.“
Other times, they might send a more detailed message with a fabricated excuse, such as a family member paying for the booking on their behalf. This will usually include a request for your personal information, which is another major red flag.
“I’m happy that you can provide your services. Regarding the $312, it is within budget and a dear friend of the family offered to contribute financially to the event by paying for your service cost. He stated that he would be paying with a check. He’ll want to do that asap. Please include the name that will appear on the check, a phone number, and the address it will be sent to if you are comfortable with the payment. We’ll keep in touch about the event going forward, thanks.“
Grammatical errors and misspellings
No one is perfect, but event information written by scammers frequently involves more grammatical errors and misspellings than an average lead. Words may be in a nonsensical order, basic punctuation may be missing, or messages may be especially short and abrupt.
Learn how to protect yourself
GigSalad has several security systems in place to prevent scams from reaching you. If a fraudulent lead gets through, then our team typically removes it within 24 hours. In the rare case that a fake lead remains active, it’s crucial to know how to protect yourself.
Keep communication on GigSalad
We understand that there may be times when it’s necessary to talk about an event over the phone, but keeping the majority of your communication on GigSalad protects you and your potential clients. When communication is kept on-site, GigSalad is able to review conversations, which makes it easier for us to determine whether a lead is legitimate or not.
When phone calls take place, we recommend sending a follow-up message through the platform that summarizes any important decisions or points of discussion that occurred during the call. This can help with security, and it also helps with your own record-keeping of the event.
✍️ You may also like: 5 Keys to Effective Client Communication
Flag suspicious leads
If you’re ever uncertain whether a lead is legitimate or not, you should flag the lead by selecting the small flag icon at the bottom right-hand corner of the message, as shown below.
Our Customer Happiness Team will get an immediate alert and be able to investigate the lead. If the event remains open, it means we have determined the lead is legitimate. If the lead becomes unavailable, it was confirmed to be fake.
Keep personal information personal
If an event planner is asking for personal information, you should be suspicious. This can include information like your address to mail a check or financial information like bank account numbers for a wire transfer.
A common scammer tactic is to send a check or wire transfer for more than the agreed-upon booking amount. They will ask you to deposit the check and forward the additional funds elsewhere or back to them. If you receive a check as described, you should cease communication with that person and destroy the check.
Book through GigSalad
Keep your bookings on GigSalad to ensure your payments are secure and alleviate the risk of being scammed. Not only do we have multiple security measures in place to prevent fraudulent transactions, but each payment is screened to ensure it is legitimate. If someone refuses to book on GigSalad, it is often a sign that they know our fraud protection will catch them.
In the modern era, it’s almost impossible not to be the target of a scammer at some point. Whether it’s on social media, online shops, phishing emails, or platforms like GigSalad. An ideal defense against online scams is to be well-informed and know what to look for. If your gut tells you that something about a request is off, you should trust it.
Our Customer Happiness Team is always happy to investigate a lead. If you feel suspicious or need help, please contact us Monday-Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM CT. You can flag any lead at any time.
Safe and happy gigging! 🎉
Sonia is a Customer Happiness Agent at GigSalad and uses the knowledge she’s gained from helping both the vendor and client through the booking process to give her best event planning advice. When she’s not at work she enjoys the outdoors, a good book, trying new recipes, and spending quality time with her husband and their furbabies.