• Their English isn't the best (this shouldn't be the only clue though, as there are plenty of legitimate art collectors that don't speak English as their first language!)
• They're moving from one country to another and want to fill their new house with your art (yes, that can be very flattering)
• They will use their own shipping company
• They will pay with travelers check, money order, cashiers check, etc

They will even take the time to list the name of each painting they want to buy (they usually choose about 3). To see some examples, see the previous posts and comments about art scams, more art scams, George Craige Art Scam, and Dr Dave Frank the Art Scammer.

ArtScams.com has a check list of things to do to keep safe online, along with links to more resources online. Here's a few of the things they suggest..

• Protect your computer from viruses, spyware, adware, worms, trojans, or other malware.
• Don't open spam. Delete it unread.
• If you suspect fraud or are a victim of fraud, take action.
• Be skeptical... If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Never ship your artwork to someone without making sure the payment has cleared.
• Beware if you have been overpaid for an item you are selling by cashier's check or postal money order and have been instructed to return the overpayment amount to the buyer or other party.
• Beware of vanity galleries and publishers who charge artists to have their work included in a publication.

Read the rest of their tips over at ArtScams.com.
>> Art Scams News

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