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.
Mary Mason, who is the legendary on air personality at WHAT, an African American owned Radio Station , smiles while in the Radio Station ‘s renovated studios. DN Photo/*Maialetti 05/29/2001Mary Mason was not only a legendary DJ in Philly, was a savvy businesswoman who saved and invested her money into lucrative investments like real estate. She wanted to make sure didn’t turn out like many other seniors from the industry before her who were broke and out of options for care. She left her will to her son who trusted but did not count on him dying young, which he did, which in turn left her money to HIS son, her grandson who some say went on a spending spree with her money.Mason’s bill at the nursing home was not being paid and they were threatening ot evict her in the midst of her suffering from Alzheimers. As a result, had to be placed n a less expensive facility as approaches the age of 88 this year.The grandson has pleaded guilty to two counts of felony theft as a result. Calvin Steven Turner IV, 34, entered his plea at the Montgomery County Courthouse in Norristown, PA. He has to repay a total of $331,000 and give 100 hours of community service. If Mason dies within the next 10 years his debt will be forgiven as he is the next of kin to receive the benefits from her will. Turner IV was left the money, over 1 million when his father died in 2012.
