Lost in the plot: how would-be authors were fooled by AI staff and virtual offices in suspected global publishing scam

The recent investigation into fraudulent publishing websites in Australia, the UK, and New Zealand highlights a concerning trend of scams targeting aspiring authors. These websites utilize fake testimonials and AI-generated staff profiles to lure individuals into financial traps. This pattern of deception mirrors other investigations, such as those involving Liberty Steel in Romania, which also faces scrutiny for financial misconduct. As the publishing landscape becomes increasingly competitive, it is crucial for writers to remain vigilant against such scams, which exploit their aspirations for profit.