If you work in the communications and media industry, it's important that you know what type of Internet scams and public relations scams are floating around so that you don't fall victim to one. Communications and media professionals are often preyed upon by Internet scammers, and if you fall victim to a scam, you could end up ruining your reputation. The last thing any company wants to do is hire a communications professional who can't tell the difference between real publicity opportunities and various Internet scams.
One of the most popular Internet scams geared towards employees in the communications and media industry appears to guarantee publicity. There are rarely publicity guarantees, so if an individual promises you media coverage from specific outlets, it's likely you're talking to a scammer. It doesn't matter what type of story you have—news cycles change on an hourly basis, and even great stories get ignored for breaking news, one of hundreds of other pitches, and even the reporter's current mood.
Internet scams are everywhere—they even come in the form of online advertisements placed by companies that seem legit. Earlier this year, PRDaily.com posted an article stating that nine people had filed complaints with the Better Business Bureau about Champion Media Worldwide, an Illinois-based PR firm. According to the article, the PR firm charged people for training sessions, guaranteeing appearances on popular daytime television shows such as Today and The Rachel Ray Show. However, according to Ronn Torossian, CEO of 5WPR, very few legit PR firms offer guarantees on top-rated TV shows. So, beware Internet advertisements that offer PR training: they are probably online scams. And, if you receive a phone call from someone offering you training who guarantees that afterwards you can book slots on LIVE with Kelly and Michael, you shouldn't run for your check book.
Most people can spot email Internet scams, so many scammers have shifted focus to social networking sites. As a communications and media specialist, you may be responsible for branding your company online, which includes maintaining its social networking pages and profiles. To make your online branding plan work, you might consult other industry professionals, but it's important to remember it is easy to hide your identity online. Online scams are everywhere. In fact, a recent article on Mashable.com indicates that one in ten users have fallen victim to social media scams. As a rule of thumb, know who you're talking to online and don't click on any images or advertisements that offer to teach you the secrets of branding your business on the Internet.
Whether you're online multiple times per day or a few times per week, it's important that you know how to spot Internet scams. Instead of trusting a person or company you don't know to teach you how to get your ads or stories aired during popular TV shows or brand your business online, stick to your brand strategy. As long as you're consistent with your brand strategy and know how to spot Internet scams, you can get your company's brand in front of your target market.
(Photo courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net)
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