Honey Trap: Are Your Favorite Influencers Getting Scammed?

Mornings are hard, but you’re harder. Recently, the Honey Influencer Scam has taken the internet by storm, with allegations that the popular coupon extension is siphoning off affiliate earnings from creators. YouTuber MegaLag sparked the controversy with his viral video, claiming that Honey misleads users and hijacks influencer links. With big names like MrBeast and MKBHD caught in the crossfire, many are questioning their past endorsements. PayPal, which owns Honey, insists they adhere to industry standards, but the fallout has led to a proposed class-action lawsuit seeking over $5 million for affected influencers.

Creators Caught in the Honey Creator Scam 🐝

More influencers reflect on the fallout from a deceptive scheme.

The creator community is grappling with the repercussions of the Honey Creator Scam, a fraudulent investment scheme that tricked influencers into endorsing services with promises of high returns.

Many influencers unknowingly played a role, leading to significant financial losses for their followers. This has reignited conversations around ethical endorsements and transparency in the creator economy.

Here’s what’s happening now →

• Legal and ethical scrutiny: Creators are calling for stricter regulations to prevent such incidents.

• Community backlash: Followers are demanding accountability from their favorite influencers.

As the story unfolds, the industry is left questioning the safeguards—or lack thereof—in place for creators and their audiences.

TikTok’s Uncertain Future 📱

All eyes on January 10 as the TikTok ban debate intensifies.

The clock is ticking for TikTok in the U.S., with the Supreme Court gearing up to hear arguments about the potential platform ban. If enforced, the ban could disrupt millions of creators and brands relying on TikTok for engagement and revenue.

Here’s what you need to know →

• Creators brace for impact: Many are diversifying to platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts.

• Advertisers adapt: TikTok promises refunds for unspent ad budgets in case of a ban.

With less than a week to go, creators and marketers are preparing for what could be the biggest shake-up in the creator economy this year.

AI x Influencer Marketing 🤖

Data-driven partnerships are shaping 2025.

Brands are leaning into AI to transform influencer marketing strategies. By year-end, 75% of brands are expected to use AI tools for influencer selection, driving a projected 35% boost in campaign ROI.

Here’s what’s trending →

• Enhanced targeting: AI algorithms help brands match with influencers who truly align with their goals.

• Optimized performance: Data-backed decisions are leading to more effective collaborations.

As AI technology evolves, it’s becoming an indispensable tool for brands aiming to navigate the ever-competitive creator landscape.

The Playbook’s today segment is for anyone who desires to understand what it “fundamentally” takes any content piece to be viral. It’s not production, neither is it post production; but the actual “content’ itself. The kernel to that is a stellar script for your video!

🎥 How to Write Viral YouTube Scripts That Get Millions of Views

1. Start with Your Viewer in Mind

• Clearly articulate how your video will benefit your audience. Every line should reflect their needs and interests.

2. Craft a Simple, Powerful Hook

• Don’t overcomplicate it. Whether it’s personal stakes or a compelling concept, keep your hook clear and engaging without trying to include everything.

3. Design for Your Niche

• Entertainment niche: Outline the character, concept, and stakes in a straightforward way.

• Educational niche: Focus on the audience’s target, transformation, and stakes.

4. Know Your Audience Avatar

• Define your ideal viewer before writing. This clarity makes decisions easier and your script more impactful.

5. Filter Every Line with 4 KPIs

• Ask yourself: Does this line contribute to Information, Progression, Regression, or Emotion? If not, cut it.

6. Delay the Pay-Off

• Build anticipation. Don’t reveal the pay-off too early—keep viewers engaged by maintaining intrigue.

7. Analyze Retention Graphs Thoughtfully

• Look for patterns in spikes and dips across the entire video, not just isolated moments. A standalone dip may not reveal the full story—consider the broader context.

8. Avoid the One-Thing Trap

• There’s no single element that kills retention. Instead, aim for a well-rounded approach to scripting and editing.

By following these tactics, you’ll not only write scripts that resonate with your audience but also improve retention and boost video performance.