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.
Thursday, January 30th 1190 WLIB-AM Produced The Sold Out Bishop Hezekiah Walker and Friends Concert at NJ Pac. Presented by State Farm . There was not an empty seat in the house with stellar performances by James Fortune, Jonathan McReynolds, Cissy Houston, Marvin Sapp, Tye Tribbett and Bishop Hezekiah Walker.(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS)Jame Fortune Performance at the 1190 WLIB-AM Concert at NJ Pac(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS)Deon Levingston, (President, GM of WBLS-FM and 1190 WLIB, Chris Squire (Sales Manager, 1190 WLIB-AM Personality, Bishop Hezekiah Walker 1190 WLIB-AM)1190 WLIB-AM Afternoon Drive Hosts: Bishop Hezekiah Walker and Neicy Tribbett(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS)(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS)Marvin Sapp(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS)Skip Dillard (WBLS and WLIB) (Operations Manager, Program Director for 1190 WLIB-AM and WBLS-FM, 1190 WLIB-AM Bishop Hezekiah Walker and Norman Seabrook, President of COBA and Presenting Sponsor of the Concert)
Thursday, January 30th 1190 WLIB-AM Produced The Sold Out Bishop Hezekiah Walker and Friends Concert at NJ Pac. Presented by State Farm . There was not an empty seat in the house with stellar performances by James Fortune, Jonathan McReynolds, Cissy Houston, Marvin Sapp, Tye Tribbett and Bishop Hezekiah Walker.(CLICK NEXT FOR MORE PICS)
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