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Scam Newspaper adverts

If you have dreams of becoming a model, this kind of ad may be tempting. But before you sign a contract, learn how to sort out the legitimate modelling agencies from the scams.

The advert above isn't real - we made it up as an example, but it's typical of the type of scam adverts often seen in local newspapers, magazines etc.

How the Scam Works
Scam modelling agencies often advertise in newspapers to encourage potential victims, both men and women, to attend group meetings.

Normally, the group will include at least one of the fraudsters, posing as a potential model. This person will ask the right questions, get the right answers and will help to convince the genuine people like yourself that you are all lucky to get the chance of joining the 'agency'

Sometimes, there will be private 'interviews' instead of a group meeting, different scam artists work in different ways.

The ads usually state, "No fees." but "selected" applicants are asked to sign a contract agreeing to participate in training classes and/or to pay for the photographs that they say are needed before they can work as models. In the end, most of the would-be models receive no photographs and no job leads. The companies simply pack up and leave town.

How To Spot the Scam

• Not all modelling scams are easy to recognise because many of the advertising claims and practices are very similar to methods used by some genuine modeling agencies.
• However, below are some common advertising claims that should make you suspicious:
  
• "No Fees."
  Genuine agencies don't charge any upfront fees, they only charge commission on the work that they actually find their models.
• "Earn £50 per hour or £300 per day."
  Only experienced models can expect to receive large salaries.
• "Work full or Part Time."
  The hours of a model are uneven and sporadic. You will not have the flexibility to choose your own hours.
• "Male or female, no age limits"
  Some ads encourage people of all shapes, sizes, and ages to apply for commercial modelling work Opportunities do sometimes exist for "real people" models, but they are rare.
• The single biggest giveaway - they accept you! In fact they accept almost everyone, although if they're clever they'll try to make you think that you've been specially chosen!
• And always remember that it is VERY unusual for genuine agencies to advertise, so the fact that you even saw the advert is a very good indication that it's just a scam!

Genuine agencies make their money from commission on the work that they find for you. They don't charge registration fees or any other kind of fees, so you can be almost certain that any 'agency' that wants you to pay them money is out to scam you.

How do the genuine agencies operate? Click here to find out

Models Earn £50 per hour or £300 per day as a fashion or commercial model. Full or part time. No experience necessary. Male or female, no age limits, No fees. Tel: 0000 000000