Spotting scam agents is something every writer needs to watch out for, especially in those early days when you’re still figuring out how the industry works and you’re eager for any opportunity. I know that initial excitement of having someone show interest in your work, especially if you’ve been pitching for a while. But not every agent out there is legit, and some are just looking to make money off hopeful writers. Here’s what I’ve learned about spotting the ones that aren’t the real deal and how to protect yourself along the way.

One of the biggest, most obvious red flags is when an agent asks for upfront fees. This might come in the form of “reading fees,” “editing fees,” or even “submission costs.” The first time I got a response from an agent, I was so excited that I nearly missed the small note about an “assessment fee.” Thankfully, I did some digging, because real agents make their money by taking a percentage of the book deal they land for you. They’re not supposed to charge you out-of-pocket just to get started. So if you see any mention of upfront fees, it’s best to walk away.

Another thing to be cautious of is big promises. I remember one agent telling me they were “sure” my book would land a huge deal and that they had connections at every major publishing house. I’ll be honest, hearing that got me excited. But here’s the thing: no one can guarantee success in publishing. Real agents will talk about potential and opportunities; they won’t promise you a best-seller or claim they can get you a deal without hesitation. Anyone making grand promises is usually trying to play on your hopes.

I also learned to dig into an agent’s track record. A reputable agent should have no problem talking about their experience, their recent clients, or at least some publishers they’ve worked with. If they’re dodging these questions, it’s usually not a good sign. When I was still actively searching for an agent, I asked one about their recent sales, and they got defensive. Turns out, they had no actual sales to reputable publishers—something I only found out after some research. So don’t be afraid to ask questions about their history and don’t settle for vague answers.

If they do give you names of books or authors they’ve represented, check them out. Look up those titles and see if they’re published by credible publishers. At times, fraudulent agents may claim self-published books as part of their “sales,” despite not having facilitated those transactions in any way. A brief search can often provide insight into the authenticity of their history.

Additionally, there are concerns regarding the use of coercive tactics. Some agents will push you to sign right away. Maybe they’ll say they have limited slots or that they’re “closing their roster” soon. I had one agent give me a 24-hour deadline to decide—something that didn’t sit right with me. A reputable agent understands that signing with them is a big decision, and they’ll give you time to think it over. If you feel pressured to make a quick decision, take that as a red flag.

And let’s talk about those “services” some agents push. I once had an agent tell me I needed to pay for an editor they “highly recommended” before they could represent me. After a bit of research, I found out that the editor was just a friend of theirs. Some agents do this to make extra money on the side. A real agent might suggest that your manuscript needs more polish, but they won’t demand that you use a specific service—especially a costly one that benefits them personally.

One more simple but important tip: check out their online presence. I know not every legitimate agent is active online, but they should at least have a professional-looking website or a LinkedIn profile. If you’re struggling to find anything on them, or if their website is unprofessional or lacking in basic information, it’s worth being cautious. Established agents usually have some kind of traceable presence, even if it’s minimal.

So, what if you suspect the agent you’re dealing with might be a scam? First, conduct your research. Look up their name on Google, consult platforms such as Writer Beware and Preditors & Editors, or check out discussions on sites like Reddit’s r/writing or the Absolute Write Water Cooler. Writers frequently share their experiences in these forums, and you may find some useful firsthand insights. Another option is to reach out to other authors for their opinions. This community can be very supportive, and many writers will gladly provide feedback if they have any knowledge of the agent or agency in question. Just knowing that others have or haven’t had positive experiences can give you a sense of what to expect.

Always trust your gut. If something feels off, listen to that instinct. I know it’s easy to feel tempted when you’re just so ready for a break, but a bad agent relationship can end up costing you time, money, and sometimes even rights to your work. It’s perfectly okay to say no if you’re unsure. A simple response like, “I don’t think this is the right fit for me at this time,” is all you need. No explanation is necessary. If you’re certain that the agent is running a scam, consider reporting them to sites like Writer Beware. This helps keep others from falling into the same trap and contributes to a safer, more transparent industry. In the end, it’s all about patience and doing your homework. The right agent is out there, and they’ll respect you, your time, and your work. The best agents are excited to build a career with you—they’re not looking for quick cash grabs. So stay alert, trust yourself, and keep going. Your dream deserves to be in good hands. Happy querying!