CryptoTwitter is calling out NFT artist and Twitter user @theblendartguy for posing as a Ukrainian to increase NFT sales. Fortunately, many NFT enthusiasts saw through the NFT artist’s shenanigans and dubbed him opportunistic.
Artist and freelancer @joogasama.eth did some digging and realised @theblendartguy is using the current crisis for personal benefit. @joogasama.eth tweeted: “beware of this dude. he’s pretending to be ukranian just to sell his nfts. recently changed his location to ukraine too. did one quick check on his instagram and he literally works in India.”
What is newsjacking?
What @theblendartguy is doing is called newsjacking. According to Sprout Social, “Newsjacking is the process of adding your thoughts and opinions into breaking news stories. It’s piggybacking on trending news topics.”
While many brands use newsjacking to comment on current affairs or put their brand in a larger conversation, it can backfire. After all, pretending to be from another nationality is not only harmful in crisis situations but drives people away. It can actually decrease, rather than increase your audience. Moreover, it is fraud to ask people to donate to support a cause that turns out to be fake.
What is the NFT community doing during this sensitive time?
On February 24, the crypto market tanked together with the stock market after Putin ordered an attack on Ukraine. The close relationship between the stock market and crypto is becoming increasingly clear; suggesting that real-world crises do affect cryptocurrencies.
Many NFT brands have come out to in support of peace between the neighbouring countries. One of the most anticipated NFT collections of the season, Weather Report, has delayed its drop one day as a sign of solidarity with Ukraine. Additionally, MakersPlace announced several measures on Twitter, including a donation of the proceeds from an NFT drop.
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