America’s Next Top Model sure has put fashion modeling on the map. Hosted by American super model and television personality Tyra Banks, the show’s a big hit with teens and tweens the world over. But, did you know that modeling scams are on the rise today? That’s right, each year the Better Business Bureau gets 2,000 complaints from individuals who have paid big bucks for professional headshots and portfolios who have received little to no work from deceptive talent scouts and modeling agencies. Many more complaints come into local authorities who often find predators at work behind these dangerous modeling scams.
These scam artists and criminals frequent malls around the country. Their job is to convince you that your teen or tween may be the next Brooklyn Decker, Christy Turlington, Gisele Bündchen or Jason Shaw. Once they have your attention, they know they have you, your kid and your checkbook in their back pocket.
Wouldn’t happen in your community? Don’t bet on it. I remember a girl in my kids’ elementary school who was approached by a so-called “talent scout” in the mall. He didn’t have a business card on him, but he sure knew how to deliver a line. Another local kid talked one of his parents into taking him to an Open Call for models held at an nearby airport hotel. His family joined dozens of others who have since wondered if any of it was even “legit.” Other families seek out these scouts and modeling agencies on their own only to learn the hard way that not everything is as it seems.
Unfortunately, according to the Federal Trade Commission, these situations are all-too-common in small towns and big cities around the country. The lure of fame and fortune is oftentimes too seductive for even the most cautious among us. But, according to experts, there are quite a few things you can do to stop these questionable operators in their tracks. And, there are ready resources to educate the public on these talent scout and modeling scams.
What can you do as a parent to protect your kids from questionable talent scouts and modeling agencies? Plenty. Check out these Top 5 Ways to Avoid Modeling Scams. Sure to help you and your teens and ‘tweens better navigate the perils of today’s red hot, celebrity culture.
Scam Buster No. 1. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. According to the Better Business Bureau, it’s important to do your homework. Research the individual or company. Check references. Contact the Better Business Bureau which maintains information on consumer fraud and poor business practices. Or, your state’s consumer protection agency or the Office of the Attorney General. Find out if this is a legitimate business owner or enterprise or, instead, a scam artist preying on young people.
Scam Buster No. 2. Don’t be too quick to provide personal information. Oftentimes, these talent scouts and agencies ask for your teen or tween’s name, age, height, weight, email, phone number, and more. Photos are often required or taken (for a price) on site. Make sure your son or daughter knows the dangers of giving out personal information to strangers. Check things through before you find yourself and your family members victims of identify theft.
Scam Buster No. 3. Ask a professional to review the paperwork, like contracts, business information and other documents. Don’t sign anything before you’ve had a chance to consult with a professional. A family attorney can help. Or, a trusted teacher or school administrator. Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s best to seek professional advice from those who can guide you on how best to protect your family’s interests.
Scam Buster No. 4. Walk away. If something doesn’t add up, don’t be afraid to leave. A legitimate talent scout or modeling agency wouldn’t demand payment in cash or money order. Nor would they put undue pressure on you and your kids to quickly sign documents or turn over huge amounts of cash. The reputable scouts and agencies turn more young models away than they accept. And, you’ll find, the real scouts don’t work weekends. That’s why it’s important to trust your instincts and walk away from these scam artists. You’ll be glad you did.
Scam Buster No. 5. Report Scam Talent Scouts and Modeling Agencies. Protect other teens and tweens against these predators and bad business operators by sharing what you know about these talent and modeling scouts and agencies. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission, Better Business Bureau, your state’s consumer protection agency or Attorney General’s office. By doing your part, you can stop fraud in its tracks and put predatory business practices out to pasture.
RESOURCES
Look out for Modeling Scams
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Don’t Get Taken By A Modeling Scam
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
