The website Preditors and Editors has some useful tips on how to avoid getting scammed by phony agencies, publishing houses and even websites. Some tips on spotting scam agencies:

• Sales it made were mostly to a publishing house wholly or partially owned by the agency.

• Requires an upfront payment for administration or for a web display or for later postage and copying.

• Online forum postings never include anyone who was rejected.

• Online forum criticism is frequently responded to by a defender of that agency.