In recent years, drones have captured the imagination of entrepreneurs and technophiles alike. The potential for profit in industries like real estate, agriculture, filmmaking, and logistics has led to a surge in people starting drone businesses. While the opportunities are real, so are the pitfalls. Chief among them is the presence of “snake oil salesmen” — individuals and companies who prey on aspiring entrepreneurs with promises that are too good to be true.
What Is a Drone Business Snake Oil Salesman?
In the context of drone businesses, a snake oil salesman is someone who sells exaggerated or false promises of quick success. They might offer expensive courses, consulting services, or proprietary technology, claiming these are the “magic ingredients” to building a successful drone business. While some of these services can be legitimate, others are predatory, designed to extract money from eager but inexperienced individuals.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
If you’re considering starting a drone business, here are some key warning signs that you might be dealing with a snake oil salesman:
1. Overhyped Earnings Claims
Be wary of anyone who guarantees you’ll make six or seven figures in your first year. While it’s possible to achieve financial success, the reality is that building a profitable drone business takes time, effort, and careful planning. Success stories are often cherry-picked to sell products or services.
2. Expensive “Secrets” or “Proven Systems”
Many snake oil salesmen offer pricey courses or systems that promise insider knowledge or guaranteed success. These often turn out to be generic advice that you could find online for free. Avoid spending thousands of dollars on unverified programs.
3. Lack of Verifiable Experience
Legitimate experts will have a track record of success in the drone industry, including real projects, partnerships, and testimonials from credible sources. If someone cannot provide evidence of their achievements, their advice is likely questionable.
4. Pushy Sales Tactics
Snake oil salesmen often use high-pressure sales tactics to get you to buy their services immediately. They may say that prices will increase soon or that spots in their program are limited. These are classic tactics to create a false sense of urgency.
5. Minimal Attention to Legal and Regulatory Challenges
The drone industry is heavily regulated, and compliance with local and national laws is critical. If a course or consultant glosses over regulatory requirements, it’s a major red flag. Operating a drone business without proper certification and adherence to regulations can lead to fines or even criminal charges.
Examples of Notable Scams
Several cases have made headlines where aspiring drone entrepreneurs fell victim to questionable courses or services:
1. The “Drone Millionaire” Scheme
In 2021, a prominent online marketer promised participants that his course would turn them into millionaires within a year by teaching them how to start a drone photography business. The course, priced at $5,000, was filled with generic advice that could easily be found online for free. Many students reported they received little to no support after paying and struggled to make any profit in the industry.
2. Fake Certification Programs
In 2019, a company claimed to offer “exclusive” drone certifications that would allow operators to bypass FAA regulations. Many individuals paid hundreds of dollars, only to discover that the certifications were worthless and not recognized by any regulatory authority. This left them exposed to potential legal penalties for operating drones without proper credentials.
3. Overpriced Drone Technology Packages
A scam involving overpriced “business starter kits” was exposed in 2020. These kits, marketed as essential for drone entrepreneurs, were sold for $10,000 or more but included basic drones and equipment worth less than $2,000. The scammers used high-pressure sales tactics and fake testimonials to lure buyers.
How to Protect Yourself
Starting a drone business is a significant investment of both time and money. To protect yourself from snake oil salesmen, take the following steps:
1. Research Thoroughly
Before purchasing any course, software, or service, research the provider. Look for independent reviews, testimonials, and case studies. Be skeptical of overly polished marketing materials that lack substance.
2. Seek Free or Low-Cost Resources
There are many free and low-cost resources available for learning about the drone industry. Online forums, YouTube channels, and industry blogs can provide valuable insights without breaking the bank.
3. Network with Industry Professionals
Connecting with experienced professionals can help you gain practical insights and avoid scams. Join local drone groups or online communities to learn from those already in the field.
4. Focus on Skills and Compliance
Invest in developing your technical skills and understanding regulatory requirements. Certifications such as the FAA Part 107 (in the U.S.) are essential for operating a drone business legally.
5. Start Small and Scale Up
Avoid diving into expensive commitments right away. Start with a modest investment and scale up as your business grows. This will help you minimize financial risk and identify genuine opportunities.
Conclusion
The drone industry is full of promise, but it’s also rife with opportunists looking to capitalize on others’ dreams. By staying vigilant, doing your homework, and focusing on real-world skills and compliance, you can avoid falling prey to snake oil salesmen. Building a successful drone business is possible, but it requires hard work, persistence, and a healthy dose of skepticism. Keep your feet on the ground, even as your drones take to the skies.
John Delaney FAA part 107 licensed drone pilot
