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.
E1 Music's Dwele dropped by the Z92.7 studios to promote his new CD WANTS WORLD & WOMEN. Pictured (left to right0 are WDZZ PD/midday personality, Bobby Holiday, Dwele & Z92.7 afternoon personality, Dr. Lee Bell.THE LEGENDARY ROY AYERS STOPPED BY THE WDZZ(Z92.7) STUDIOS TO PROMOTE HIS BRAND NEW LIVE CD. PICTURES (LEFT TO RIGHT) ARE WDZZ(Z92.7) PD/MIDDAY PERSONALITY, BOBBY HOLIDAY, ROY AYERS, WILLIE ANDRES & WDZZ(Z92.7) AFTERNOON PERSONALITY, DR. LEE BELL.On Saturday, February 19th, WDZZ(Z92.7) received the special Partner In Progress award at the 10th Annual Black History Month Brunch put on every year by the Genesee Dirtrict Library. The award recognizes WDZZ for its community efforts as well as their partnering role with the brunch for the past 9 years. This year's entertainment included gospel-recording artist, Vickie Winans. Pictured with Miss Vickie Winans and accepting the award on behalf of WDZZ is WDZZ PD/midday personality Bobby Holiday
