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.
L-R) Mir Harris, K. Michelle, Myisha Brooks, Gail Mitchell and Moya NkrumaIn this male dominated industry it is always nice to see hard work, dedication, and talent paying off for the ladies. The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publirs (ASCAP) hosted the Los Angeles edition of their sixth annual ASCAP Presents…Women Behind the Music series last night at Bardot in Hollywood giving well-deserved honor and praise to women in the industry that have surpassed the standard of excellence.Honorees included singer-songwriter K. Michelle, Billboard’s Senior Editor Gail Mitchell, and Motown Record’s Vice President of Creative Relations Myisha Brooks. Check out the photos below by A Turner Archives that truly captured the event.Speaking of women doing great work in the industry, we see ASCAP’s Associate Director of Membership, Rhythm and Soul, Mir Harris doing great work over there. Keep up the extraordinary work ladies!Morgan Hardman and Teairra Marà attend K. Michelle honored at ASCAP’s Sixth Annual “Women Behind the Music” Series – Los AngelesTeairra Marà seen with K. Michelle at ASCAP’s Sixth Annual “Women Behind the Music” Series – Los Angeles
