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.
Model Christine Teigen (L) and singer/songwriter John Legend attend the Nielsen Pre-GRAMMY Party at Mondrian Los Angeles on January 25, 2014 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for MAC Presents)Nielsen, a leading global provider of information and insights into what consumers watch and buy, hosted a GRAMMY® Awards celebration on Saturday, January 25th, 2014, at Mondrian Los Angeles. The party, a first for Nielsen, brought together guests across media, brands, and entertainment fêting their unique connection. The evening featured live entertainment from critically acclaimed, nine-time GRAMMY® Award winning singer-songwriter John Legend and New Orleans’ Preservation Hall Jazz Band, with a dj set by Hannah Bronfman. Food was curated by celebrity chef Brian Malarkey…a fair and honest appraisal of your appearance was provided by The Bumbys. Check out a few pics from the event.(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS FROM THE EVENT)(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS FROM THE EVENT)Actress Hannah Bronfman attends the Nielsen Pre-GRAMMY Party at Mondrian Los Angeles on January 25, 2014 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for MAC Presents)Mitch Barns, CEO, Nielsen (R) attends the Nielsen Pre-GRAMMY Party at Mondrian Los Angeles on January 25, 2014 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for MAC Presents)The Bumbys arrive at the Nielsen Pre-GRAMMY Party at Mondrian Los Angeles on January 25, 2014 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for MAC Presents)(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS FROM THE EVENT)Members of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band attend the Nielsen Pre-GRAMMY Party at Mondrian Los Angeles on January 25, 2014 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for MAC Presents)(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS FROM THE EVENT)
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