How the Webmaster Script scam operates

Fraudsters of this scam will often visit Warez related websites and look for scripts that have been hacked or nulled, which are then downloaded.

Hacked or nulled scripts are scripts where the copyright protection and other security related features, implemented by the author of the script, have been removed.

Fraudsters will then customize the script to their own needs and start offering the scripts for sale to webmasters on webmaster communities. Offenders will then generate income from the sale of these scripts.

The problem webmasters face is that when the scripts are implemented that he original author may come across his script. This may lead to such owner implementing civil or criminal prosecution against the webmaster. In many instances the owner of the script may ensure that a website is shut down by the hosting service provider.

How to protect oneself against these scams

When buying scripts from a fellow webmaster, one should always ensure that the webmaster is known to the community. Also ensure that he has a proven track record in selling legitimate scripts.

Conduct search engine searches for similar scripts and attempt to find a script similar to the one on sale. By doing this, the webmaster will quickly identify a possible stolen script.

Visit Warez related websites and look at similar scripts that is being distributed. This is also a quick method in ensuring that the script sold is indeed not a stolen script.