Model scams involving young teenage girls are on the rise.
Here’s how to present a scam: According to the editorial suits of the clothing tailor company, the 16-year-old woman receives Instagram messages from a modeling agency on her birthday. The company claims to represent top fashion brands and launch young talent into the industry.
“We’ve been scouting fresh faces. You have the perfect look. We’d like to discuss you in signing with our company,” the message reads.
The scam will unfold
The agency quickly moved the young female teenager from her Instagram account to WhatsApp. Here we begin to discuss the contracts, photo shoot schedules, and how the modeling agency helped young women land modeling deals with major brands.
The fraud modeling agency sends smooth edited videos of “their” models walking the catwalk along with official contracts, filming schedules and what appears to be a sparkling testimony from successful models.
Then the catch comes. The 16-year-old is said to have to pay a $3,000.00 model deposit for his first professional photo shoot to secure his position at the agency.
“All new models do this.” It covers styling and portfolio shots and guarantees your place. Don’t worry. This is completely normal in the industry. Get this back with your first reservation! ” says the scammer.
The teenager transfers money through bank transfers and believes she is investing in her future.
Then they disappeared
The next morning, the young woman checks her phone and expects a follow-up message about her first photo shoot. Instead, she, her “agent” had disappeared. My WhatsApp number is not in use, my modeling agency’s Instagram account was deleted, and her email was unanswered.
According to Editorial Suit, hopeful teenagers begin searching for “agents,” but are found no traces of the official website, no company registration, or actual existence other than the currently deleted Instagram page.
How did the scam look real?
Industry experts say scammers go for a great deal of length to make their business look legal.
An Instagram page that looks professional filled with high quality images. Stolen videos of real models make them look reliable. WhatsApp numbers were answered by friendly and encouraging contacts. Proper rehearsed pitches that make fake contracts, onboarding documents and brand lists, and prepaid fees appear to be standard practices
“They made it sound very real,” said one of the women who was scammed. “They sent me contracts, success stories and videos. It wasn’t a random message. Everything looked professional. I didn’t think I had to double check.”
Expert Advice: How to Avoid Model Scams
Editorial suit says parents need to be involved. “A legitimate institutions don’t ask for money in advance, and if that’s the case, it’s a scam,” says Editorial Suit.
We will thoroughly investigate the agency. Legal institutions have registered businesses, professional websites and verifiable track record.
Check out our online reviews and fraud warnings. Many fake institutions reuse the same tactics, and previous victims often post warnings.
Reverse the image and video. Scammers frequently steal content from real institutions to build fake credibility. Google reverse image search reveals stolen photos.
Be careful of institutions that reach out directly. Most professional agents are not approved by Instagram youth.
Do not pay the advance fee. Reputable institutions make money through work committees, not through deposits.
Encourage open communication. Scammers create urgency and excitement to make victims move quickly. Parents should remind their children that opportunities should always be discussed before money is sent.
