Being an athlete influencer in the NIL world also inevitably means you are a likely target for scammers, specifically via social media and email. This obstacle simply comes with the territory and should not deter you from monetizing your NIL; however, don’t let that render you complacent. It’s important to be vigilant and take steps to avoid scams. Here are 5 tips to help you navigate potential inbox scams:
- Always Research Opportunities. If approached in your inbox by someone claiming to have an NIL opportunity for you, thoroughly research the page that contacted you and/or the company or individual claiming to have sent the message/own that page. Look for reviews, news articles, or any red flags that might indicate it’s a scam within the message (i.e. overzealous promises, excessive use of emojis/capital letters, odd language, inordinate informality).
- Avoid High-Risk Opportunities. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true or require significant upfront payments from you. Scammers often use enticing offers to lure in unsuspecting individuals.
- Verify Legitimacy. Make sure the company or individual is legitimate. Check their website, social media presence, and contact information. Look for verified accounts or endorsements from reputable sources. Be hyperaware of websites/social media pages with low-resolution media (photos & videos), very little content, content that is only very recent, and sites that are not secure (i.e. lacks the “lock” icon to the left of the URL or displays “http” instead of “https” at front of URL).
- Stay Educated and Updated. Stay informed about common scams targeting NIL athletes and influencers. Knowledge is your best defense against falling victim to fraud. Scammers are also always evolving their tactics, so be sure you are staying up-to-date on the latest scams and be proactive in protecting yourself.
- Trust Your Instincts. If something doesn’t feel right or you’re unsure about a potential opportunity, trust your instincts and proceed with caution. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
By staying vigilant and taking proactive measures, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to scams as an NIL athlete influencer.
Savannah NIL 