well.. now we could debate that for hours i fear
Either way, crappy clones are crappy clones... that's quite different than a scam. They are most likely non-viable in the long term and offer, technologically speaking, no innovation whatsoever.. but that's doesn't qualify as a scam, no until they come laced with Trojans or wallet drainers.
They are toys that people who are willing to risk a few hours of mining at the very beginning may enjoy for a quick profit. that's all. They don't hurt anybody who doesn't hurt himself on the way.