How Two TikTok ‘Business Coaches’ Tried to Scam Me as a New Etsy Seller — In One Day
As a new Etsy seller, I was contacted twice in one day by TikTok users claiming to be top Etsy sellers and offering “secret strategies” to boost sales. Their promises sounded tempting, but red flags — mismatched usernames, vague claims, and no proof — made me pause. I did my homework, verified the shops, and avoided getting scammed. This is my story and the lessons I learned for fellow new sellers.
11/16/20252 min read
When you’re a new Etsy seller, every “tip” or “shortcut” feels like it could be the key to your first sale. I know — I’ve been there, staying up late tweaking listings, posting bracelet photos, and hoping someone would finally click buy.
So when I got my first TikTok DM from someone claiming to be a top Etsy seller, I thought, maybe this is my lucky break… but things didn’t turn out the way I expected.
The First Contact: “I Can Help You Make Real Sales”
The message was friendly, almost casual:
“I’ve been using a system that brings buyers straight to your shop, not just casual scrollers. I can show you step by step if you want.”
It sounded great, but I noticed red flags quickly:
The person claimed to own a highly successful Etsy shop, but their social media username didn’t match the shop.
They promised “real buyers” would come instantly — no proof, no examples.
They offered to connect me with a “mentor” to guide me.
Déjà Vu — The Second Scammer (Same Day!)
Shockingly, later that same day, another TikTok user contacted me with almost the exact same pitch: step-by-step guidance, mentors, secret strategies, instant buyers.
It was clear: these scammers were targeting new sellers aggressively, preying on the excitement and anxiety of getting that first sale.
Doing My Homework: Verifying the Claims
Instead of jumping in, I checked the Etsy shops they claimed to own:
Some shops were real, but the official info often said the owner had no social media accounts.
Everything the scammers claimed didn’t line up.
It became obvious: these TikTok users were misrepresenting themselves.
Lessons Learned for New Sellers
Here’s what I want other Etsy beginners to know:
Verify before trusting anyone
Check shop ownership, social media, and public information.Vague promises are red flags
“Secret systems,” “instant buyers,” and “mentors” are classic tactics to pressure you.Focus on what you can control
Etsy SEO, high-quality photos, clear descriptions, local markets — these really work.Trust your instincts
If something feels off, pause, research, and ask questions.
Conclusion: Your First Sale Is Worth Doing the Right Way
It’s easy to get tempted by quick fixes or “proven systems,” especially when you’re eager for your first sale. But in my experience, nothing beats real work, verified strategies, and patience.
Sharing this story isn’t just for me — it’s for all the new sellers out there. The ones staying up late, wondering if their Etsy shop will ever make that first sale. You don’t need to fall for a scam — you just need to stick to what works and keep learning.