Warning - Scam Alert

[elgreco]

So, in a matter of 12 hours, on Facebook Groups and in our feeds, we have come across 3 persons who are posing as 3D artists/sculptors. They post images of 3D figures and busts which they steal from genuine artists on ArtStation and Patreon, claiming to be the creators of those models, and then offer to sell the STL files for personal 3D printing.
PLEASE do be careful. If you are not sure of the authenticity of the artist, DO NOT buy the STLs. It is likely that you will send your cash and not receive a file because they do not have it in the first place.
A genuine artist will have several photos of their work and are likely to have ArtStation or Patreon accounts. DO NOT send money to unknown persons, especially if they ask you to send them a private message for the price of the model.
Just do not rush to buy STL files unless you are sure they are from a trusted source. FB Group Administrators - please be on the alert when new members join, posting 3D designs, etc. Check their profiles thoroughly and scour the photos in their albums.

 

[Blind Pew]

Thanks for drawing attention to these people.

 

[Nap]

Thank you for highlighting this

Needless to say if any of theses thieves are on PF , and we are advised ...they will be blocked and banned

It's disgusting that this is happening

Nap

 

[kevininpdx]

People’s greed never ceases to amaze me. A buddy of mine just got a 3d printer so we’ve been buying files. They are an incredible bargain. Yet we see them getting bootlegged on Etsy anyway. Disgusting.

 

[Tecumsea]

The problem with technology is nothing is secure. It was evident to anyone with a grain of intelligence that the advent of 3d technology and files being held on computers that the scammers would be able to access files and produce their own copies.

I'm in no way advocating this just saying it is no surprise.

 

[Steve headley]

Just to add my thoughts, we use 3D sculpts as is well known, when we commission a piece our sculptor prints it then the master sent to us for casting. It’s never designed on line so it’s as safe as we can get it from our point of view.

We have now received our own 3D printer which means we will be printing the masters. But we have asked our sculptors to put the files on a memory stick and send it to us. That way it’s not on line and less chance of being hacked. Ok not the fastest way but it’s going to be a bit more secure.

When people see money to be made they will always try and exploit it. If people see a bargain they will go to it, it’s human nature and especially with the financial issues of today. The pirates will try and exploit the market.

When video games first appeared they were pirates everywhere you could pick games up for £1 or less . The game cost £30 everyone I knew used to get them, it was hit and miss sometimes but they exploited the market. The thing is if pirates can find away they will sad but very true. And this stealing 3D files is just an extension of pirating resin copies.

Like I’ve said there are ways round it for companies who cast from a master but if your selling files then I’m afraid it’s more complex.

Steve

TFB Miniatures Team

 

[David Spencer]

So, in a matter of 12 hours, on Facebook Groups and in our feeds, we have come across 3 persons who are posing as 3D artists/sculptors...

A sad sign of the times. And another reason to stick to legitimate retailers.