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.
It’s hard to believe that commercial radio is still taking chances like this in some places, but it’s also hard to believe that Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck have radio shows too… at any rate, a Radio Station in Columbus, OH 610 WTVN, Â gave a free trip to Phoenix, AZ to winner Andy Wasco to spend a weekend…. get ready for this…. “chasing aliens and spending cash in the desert.” Listeners were not sure if it was a joke but the Leaders of the National Council of La Raza, a Hispanic civil rights organization blasted the Radio Station calling the contest outrageous and appalling. Â Read the whole story here