Scam or Opportunity? 6 Dangerous Traps Every Creative Should Avoid

The glittering success stories you see are built over a treacherous foundation of six deadly, targeted scams. Forget old-school 419. These new scams are sophisticated, digital, and often deployed by individuals who appear and sound genuine.

It is no secret that the Nigerian creative sector (Afrobeats, Nollywood, and the influencer hustle) is the only thing truly winning on the global stage. Yet, the very scene that promises your breakthrough appears to be rigged with sophisticated traps designed to bleed you dry.

They weaponize your desperation for fame, your need for capital, and your absolute belief that your talent deserves to be seen. If you’re really looking to make a splash in the industry, the biggest threat to your bank account isn't the government or the economy; it's the anonymous fraudster hiding in your DMs, disguised as your ‘destiny helper’.

In this article, we uncover six of the most dangerous scams targeting Nigerian entertainment professionals right now.

1. The Fake Promoter Advance Fee

For many hungry creatives chasing fame, this scam feels like the golden ticket – until it isn’t. The con starts when a slick “A&R rep” or self-acclaimed “international promoter” slides into your DMs, promising you a dream record deal or a star-studded collaboration. They drop big names, flash fake contracts, and sell the fantasy of overnight success.

"The guy said I should pay for form"

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