Consumer Blog

Ever been told you are attractive enough to be a model? It's such a great compliment -- if it is coming from a genuine source. Sometimes, however, these words of flattery are used as a type of bait for a money-making scam.

We recently received spam that was most likely a modeling scam. The Riverfront Times reported that many agencies sign-up men, women and children as modeling talent, despite not having modeling jobs. Further, there are fees and costs that are required the "models" to pay these agencies.

According the Federal Trade Commission article, "If You've Got The Look...Look Out!", there are ways to protect yourself and determine if these are legitimate business.

First, you must ask questions: Is this too good to be true?; Is the company licensed or bonded?; Can the company provided names of successful models? Further, be wary of an agency that requires money up-front and for companies that require you to pay any fees in cash or money order. Also, avoid high-pressure sales-pitches. And last, review all documents before signing them.