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.
Hosted by Terrence ‘J’ Jenkins and KeKe Palmer, the 12th annual 365Black Awards will premiere on BET Networks Sunday, August 23 at 9:00 p.m. EDT/8:00 p.m. CDT. Pictured, Academy award-nominated filmmaker, Ava DuVernay accepts award from actor/rapper, Common alongside actress, Salli Richardson Whitfield at the 12th annual 365Black Awards. (PRNewsFoto/McDonald’s USA)McDonald’s USA will televise its 12th annual 365Black Awards ceremony for the third consecutive year on the national cable television network Black Entertainment Television® (BET®). Hosted by national TV correspondent/actor Terrence ‘J’ Jenkins and leading actress KeKe Palmer, the program will initially air Sunday, August 23 at 9:00 p.m. EDT/8:00 p.m. CDT. Those who miss the first airing can catch it again the following Sunday, August 30 at 11:00 a.m. EDT/10:00 a.m. CDT on bet and at 7:00 p.m. EDT/6:00 p.m. CDT and 12:00 a.m. EDT/11:00 p.m. CDT on CENTRIC-TV.This year’s McDonald’s 365Black Awards features an all-star lineup, including show-stopping performances by recording artists B.o.B., who opens the show, Smokie Norful, Avery*Sunshine, Jonathan McReynolds, Amber Riley, Shanice Wilson, Sevyn Streeter, Assassin and newcomer Andra Day. Actress Wendy Raquel Robinson, actor/photographer Lance Gross, gospel music veteran Yolanda Adams, Academy-award winning rapper/actor Common, actress Salli Richardson Whitfield, actor Dondre Whitfield, actress Yara Shahidi and actor Marcus Scribner are among celebrities who will present the illustrious awards.”I was honored to host the McDonald’s 365Black Awards for the second year alongside KeKe,” said Terrence J. “Any opportunity to shine a positive light on the achievements of our people, I fully support.”The awards are presented annually to salute outstanding achievements of those who are committed to making positive contributions that strengthen the African-American diaspora. This year’s honorees include: Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Ava DuVernay (Selma); multi-award winning gospel artist Pastor Marvin Sapp; civic leader Marc Morial; journalist and communications specialist Jeff Johnson; and McDonald’s owner/operator Carolyn Hunter. Additionally, teen entrepreneur Tori Turner and young filmmaker Aaron Johnson are recognized alongside this lineup with the second McDonald’s 365Black Community Choice Youth Award, facilitated by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.”We’re excited to partner with bet Networks again to broadcast McDonald’s annual 365Black Awards,” said William Rhodes, McDonald’s U.S. marketing director. “McDonald’s is committed every day to being deeply rooted in the community and it’s a great feeling to connect with another media entity that seeks to uplift our community as well.”Be sure to follow @365Black on Twitter for commentary on the awards. Social and digital media correspondent @Luvvie Ajayi will be hosting a Twitter party during the show; be sure to follow the conversation using #365BlackAwards.
