I have made many a post about Scammers, yet players are still hitting me up and asking if the same scammer is legit or not. And especially now between seasons, it is the time when scammers are the most activel I have witnessed the unfortunate reality of players being scammed by fraudsters who are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods. In this blog post, I will highlight some of the most common ways that scammers target overseas basketball players and provide important tips on how to avoid falling prey to these scams.
1. Fake Agents
Scammers often pose as agents who can help players secure a contract overseas. They may ask for an upfront fee or require the player to sign a contract before they can start working with them. In addition to these scams, they may also tell the players they need to pay for their visa, which is usually the responsibility of the team.
2. Fake Teams
Another common scam is when a player is contacted by a team that does not actually exist. The scammer may ask for personal information or a fee to secure a contract with the team. They may also ask for payment for FIBA clearance, which no agent can process.
3. Contract Scams
Scammers may offer a contract that seems too good to be true. The contract may promise a high salary or other benefits, but the player will be required to pay a fee before signing it. These scams often involve a small amount of money, typically between $200-$500 that players can get together without raising questions.
4. Phishing Scams
Phishing scams involve scammers sending fraudulent emails or text messages that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a team or agent. The message may ask for personal information or require the player to click on a link.
To avoid these scams, players should research agents and teams before signing with them. They should also carefully review any contracts before signing and be wary of contracts that require upfront fees or seem too good to be true. Players should only pay for their visa or FIBA clearance if they are certain that it is their responsibility to do so.
5. Social Media (especially Facebook) Messages
Finally, players should be wary of unsolicited messages and verify the source before providing any personal information or clicking on any links. It is crucial for players to trust their instincts and seek help if they are unsure about any situation.
The rise of social media has made it easier for scammers to get in touch with a large amount f players without putting much effort into it. Think about it like this, if a scammer reaches out to 300 players, and is able to scam 10% of them for anywhere between $100-$300, the scammer makes a pretty good living without much having to do so much as copy and paste.
In conclusion, players must remain vigilant and aware of the common scams that target them. By following these tips and being cautious, players can protect themselves from falling victim to scammers. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.