The BBC reported on modeling scams targeting older models. Modeling scams aren’t new, but it’s worth looking at how they spread today, how to spot them, and—most importantly—how to avoid falling victim to them.
The classic pitch goes like this: Someone walks up to you in the street and says, “You look so good, you should be a model.” Very flattering and something many would have a hard time ignoring.
As you might expect, some of these unsolicited contacts are up to no good.
But in our current social-media-driven society, the same approach happens online—via direct messages and ads recruiting “nonstandard” models, including people way past their twenties.
For years, modeling scammers have targeted young people wanting to become rich and famous. Now, they’ve widened the net. You’ll see phrases like “silver hair models,” “mature models over 50,” or “experienced life models” to target older adults: an even more attractive target.
Scammers assume that older adults have more savings and less debt. They may also exploit social isolation and unfamiliarity with technology and online risks. This makes seniors appealing targets, especially for scams promising lucrative opportunities such as modeling contracts or paid photoshoots.
Scammers often pressure their targets to pay up front for portfolios, photoshoots and “registration fees,” steering them to specific providers and payment methods. Some insist that victims use PayPal’s Friends and Family option, which carries no extra fee but removes buyer protection and any possibility of a refund if disputes arise—meaning you cannot get your money back through PayPal.
Not every scam is about money. Some run fake casting calls or set up fabricated agency websites to collect personal information for future scams, or to obtain explicit photographs that they later sell or circulate on the dark web.
How to avoid becoming a modeling scam victim
- Research the company. Search the school or agency name with terms like “scam,” “review,” or “complaint.” If possible, check recognized industry databases or legitimate talent listings. Inspect profiles for red flags like stolen photos or brand-new accounts with few followers.
- Never pay an agency up front. Legitimate agencies earn a commission when you book work, not from “registration” or mandatory photo packages.
- Don’t let them dictate how to pay. Avoid payment methods that reduce protection, like PayPal Friends and Family. If someone is specific on how you pay, that’s a warning sign.
- Avoid agencies that force you to use their staff for your photoshoots or auditions. If an agency says you have to use its photographer or makeup artist, don’t work with them. An agency should let you hire your own makeup artist and photographer.
- Ask if the company or school is licensed or bonded, if your state requires it. Check this information with your local consumer protection agency or your state attorney general—and make sure the license is current.
- Get references. Ask for names and contact details of models or actors who’ve recently gotten work through the agency. Scam agencies sometimes display photos of successful models they never represented, or claim connections with well-known companies that never hired their talent. Verify these claims by contacting the people or companies directly.
- Get everything in writing. Capture all promises and terms in a contract and keep copies of important documents.
- Watch for vague promises and guaranteed high earnings. If someone promises “instant fame,” “guaranteed work,” or extremely high pay, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate modeling work is competitive and rarely guarantees jobs.
- Don’t send suggestive or personal photos or share private information. Professional agencies will not ask for explicit photos or ask for sensitive details like your address or financial information before you’re actually signed and onboarded.
- Trust your instincts—and get a second opinion. If something feels off because of high-pressure tactics, pushy behavior, or you’re uncomfortable step back and rethink or ask a friend’s advice. Scammers often rush or pressure for quick commitments.
We don’t just report on scams—we help detect them
Cybersecurity risks should never spread beyond a headline. If something looks dodgy to you, check if it’s a scam using Malwarebytes Scam Guard, a feature of our mobile protection products. Submit a screenshot, paste suspicious content, or share a text or phone number, and we’ll tell you if it’s a scam or legit. Download Malwarebytes Mobile Security for iOS or Android and try it today!
