By Calynn M. Lawrence
@fairytalefacesbycalynn

Unfortunately, many aspiring models are being bamboozled by con artists who prey on individuals who are seeking a ticket to a successful career. If you’re someone who is new to the fashion industry then these are a few (sadly) common scams that people are falling victim to every day. You should be weary of them and take heed to this advice.

1. SKETCHY ONLINE ADVERTISEMENTS

Sketchy online advertisements are becoming increasingly prevalent to seek out young people and lure them into dangerous situations. Some times these are criminals simply looking to hurt you and are hiding behind the guise of a photographer or modeling recruiter. That being said, be extremely careful about taking jobs that do not come from reputable websites. Make sure that you double check the person’s references and do a little online research. It may seem like a bit much but it’s better to be safe than sorry! If you are in doubt, then do go ahead with it.

2. PAYING FOR SERVICES THAT YOU HAVE NOT YET RECEIVED

Scammers often will create the illusion that they will provide you with this awesome service and convince you that you should pay them beforehand. This is a huge No No! Unless you are doing business with a trusted agent whom you have worked with before, do not give up your money until after they have done their job! Many people will take your funds and leave you high and dry. Be cautious with how you distribute your coin.

3. ASKING FOR PERSONAL INFORMATION

This is something that seems like it would be a bit of a no brainer. However, many people still fall victim to identity theft on a daily basis. When it comes to dealing with other individuals, try to make all of your transactions with cash, making sure to get a proper receipt for reference. Unless you are dealing with a trusted source, then providing information such as your credit card number or Social Security Number is a terrible risk and could lead to your financial detriment!

4. DISREGARD OF PARENTAL CONSENT (for minors)

If you are under the age of 18, then you are considered a minor in America & Australia. Thus, any business that you do has to be done with the consent of a legal guardian or parent. If you have someone, specifically an adult, contacting you for modeling work, knowing that you are underaged, and they do not ask for parental consent then they are people that you ought to steer clear of! These could be child predators or simply unknowledgeable business people. Either way, do not get involved with them!

These are simply a few scams that are common amongst beginners in the fashion industry. Like anything else, take everything with a grain of salt and be cautious and career savvy when doing anything that could help or hurt your success.