Scammers are targeting clients looking to get their hair braided by using real stylists’ work and creating fake social media pages.
Reports of Scams
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is receiving reports of scams targeting individuals wanting braids. Scammers take pictures from legitimate stylists and post them on fake social media pages.
Modus Operandi
Potential clients find the fake pages and book appointments, often making small deposits. Clients realize they have been scammed when they do not hear back from the supposed stylist on the appointment day.
Impact on Legitimate Businesses
Real stylists like Porsche Hensley, who has been braiding hair for over 10 years and owns Divine Innovation 615 in Nashville, are affected. Hensley reported instances where clients arrived for appointments, only to find out they were scammed.
Precautions to Avoid Scams
BBB advises not to pay for the service in full before the appointment. Visit the stylist’s location before booking. Verify the stylist’s work by searching for them online and including the word “scam” after their name. Ask for the stylist’s license number and verify it.
Continuing the Business
Despite the scams, stylists like Porsche Hensley remain undeterred and continue their work.
Conclusion
Scammers exploiting the popularity of hair braiding are causing issues for both clients and legitimate stylists. Clients are advised to take precautions to ensure they are booking authentic services.
Photo: Art Streiber BET Networks is teaming up with Sheryl Underwood’s Pack Rat Foundation for Education and King Artist Entertainment to bring the iconic Soul Train brand to select Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) during the 2016-17 Homecoming season. Inclusive of three critical C’s: concerts, comedy, and conversation – the collaboration will have engaging and interactive elements that allow students and alumni to preserve and celebrate the Soul Train heritage and legacy in music, dance and fashion.”“BET is thrilled to build on the legacy in the College market, where we can simultaneously put a timeless brand in front of new and familiar audiences, while also reinstating our commitment to the higher education community,”” said Richard Gay, Executive Vice President, Strategy and Operations at BET Networks. ““Alongside Sheryl Underwood’s Pack Rat Foundation for Education and King Artist Entertainment, we’re honored to bring two epic experiences – Soul Train and Homecoming at HBCUs – together and look forward to finding additional ways to engage the brand.””“While maintaining the foundation of Soul Train’s origin, the young people on HBCU campuses will become the conductors of Soul Train.” Underwood adds, ““There’s a passion right now for music and social activism. Pack Rat Foundation For Education, BET Networks and King Artist Entertainment will bring the community together with love, peace and soul.””
