Model scams involving young teenage girls are on the rise.
Here’s how the scams are presented. According to clothing tailor company Edit Suits, a 16-year-old female will receive an Instagram message on her birthday from a modeling agency. The company will claim to represent top fashion brands and launch young talent into the industry.
“We’ve been scouting fresh faces, and you have the perfect look. We’d love to discuss signing you on with our company,” the message will read.
The Scam Unfolds
The agency quickly moved the young female teenager from her Instagram account to WhatsApp, where a supposed talent scout will begin discussing contracts, photoshoot schedules, and how their modeling agency has helped young women land modeling deals with major brands.
The scam modeling agency will then send slick edited videos of ‘their’ models walking the catwalk alongside a digital welcome pack filled with official-looking contracts, shoot schedules, and what appear to be glowing testimonials from successful models.
Then comes the catch. The 16-year-old is told in order to secure her place in the agency, she will need to pay a $3,000.00 model deposit for her first professional photoshoot.
“All our new models do this. “It covers styling and portfolio shots and guarantees your place. Don’t worry—this is completely normal in the industry, and you’ll make this back in your first booking!” says the scammer.
The teenager transfers the money via bank transfer, believing she was investing in her future.
Then They Disappeared
The next morning, the young woman checks her phone, expecting a follow-up message about her first photoshoot. Instead, she, her “agent,” had vanished. The WhatsApp number was no longer in service, and the modeling agency’s Instagram account had been deleted, and her emails went unanswered.
Edit Suits says that a hopeful teenager begins to search for the “agency” but finds no trace of an official website, no company registration, and no real presence outside of their now-deleted Instagram page.
How Did the Scam Look So Real?
Industry experts say the scam artists go to great lengths to make their operations appear legitimate.
A professional-looking Instagram page filled with high-quality images. Stolen videos of real models to make them seem credible. A WhatsApp number was answered by a friendly and reassuring contact. Fake contracts, onboarding documents and brand lists, and a well-rehearsed pitch that made the upfront fee seem like standard practice
“They made it sound so real,” said one of the females who got scammed. “They sent me contracts, success stories, and videos. It wasn’t some random message—everything looked professional. I just didn’t think I needed to double-check.”
Expert Advice: How to Avoid Model Scams
Edit Suits says parents need to be involved. “No legitimate agency will ever ask for money upfront. If they do, it’s a scam,” says Edit Suits.
Research the agency thoroughly. Legitimate agencies will have a registered business, a professional website, and a verifiable track record.
Check for online reviews and scam warnings. Many fake agencies reuse the same tactics, and previous victims often post warnings.
Reverse search images and videos. Scammers frequently steal content from real agencies to build fake credibility. A Google reverse image search can reveal stolen photos.
Be wary of agencies that reach out directly. Most professional agencies do not message young people on Instagram unsolicited.
Never pay upfront fees. Reputable agencies make their money through commissions on jobs, not deposits.
Encourage open communication. Scammers create urgency and excitement to make victims act quickly. Parents should remind their children that opportunities should always be discussed before any money is sent.
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