Introduction

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.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovRNa1msWYU

Thursday, May 15, 2025

Sony Music Publishing Names Laura Mendoza Colombia MD

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Sony Music Publishing today announced the appointment of Laura Mendoza as its new Managing Director of its Colombia office, effective immediately. Mendoza will be based in Bogotá, Colombia, and will report directly to Sony Music Publishing President & CEO, Latin America and U.S. Latin Jorge Mejia.

As Managing Director, Mendoza will be responsible for overseeing SMP Colombia’s business operations and advancing its growth initiatives, working closely with the company’s Latin America and U.S. Latin teams, as well as industry partners across the region.

Mendoza said, “I am delighted to join the number one music r-of-the-year-at-2023-sesac-music-awards/” data-type=”post” data-id=”753550″>publir in the world and in my region. It is an honor to work alongside so many talented professionals across the company. Both the challenge and the opportunity of developing the careers of such a fantastic roster will allow me to contribute to a better industry and to the growth of SMP songwriters globally.”

Sony Music Publishing President & CEO, Latin America and U.S. Latin Jorge Mejia said, “We are confident that Laura will be pivotal in the continued growth of our business as SMP Colombia’s songwriters expand their presence around the world. This is an exciting time in Latin music, and we look forward to elevating our songwriters and teams to new levels of success.”

A creative executive with more than 20 years of music industry experience, Mendoza most recently served as Head of Label and Artist Solutions Central America, Andean & Southern Cone Region at Believe Distribution Services. 

Prior to joining Believe, Mendoza spent time at Altafonte Music Network as Country Manager, Colombia & Music Rights Director, Andean & Central American Region. She began her career at EMI Music Colombia in 1998, working in various areas across the business as Royalty Operations Manager and later Digital Marketing & Business Development Manager.

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