Unfortunately, young and aspiring models are often the targets of modeling scams that are potentially dangerous. To avoid a scam, it is essential that you do your due diligence before engaging with anyone who expresses interest in working with you as a model. Below, we have outlined warning signs of potential scams.
Potential Scams:
Warning Signs & Advice
Bogus Agencies
Beginning December 21, 2025, modeling agencies operating in New York State must register with the NYS Department of Labor and post their certificate of registration in their office and on their website. They must also list their registration number in any advertisements or social media profiles they use to recruit models, and in their contracts with models or clients. Modeling agencies that are not registered or otherwise do not follow these requirements are in violation of the Fashion Workers Act and should be avoided.
Signing Fees and Deposits
Scam modeling agencies will often ask aspiring models to send upfront payments in order to represent them. Beginning June 19, 2025, modeling agencies are prohibited from charging signing fees and deposits under the New York State Fashion Workers Act. If a modeling agency charges you a signing fee or deposit, you have the right to file an action in court or you can file a complaint with the New York State Department of Labor. Contact our support line to learn more.
Online Scams
It has been reported to us that Model Mayhem, which allows anyone to pose as a “professional” photographer or agent, is especially risky. It has also been reported to us that models have gone missing and have been sexually assaulted using this site. For these reasons, we recommend that it is best to avoid it altogether.
Unsolicited Contact
Some scams may try to contact you directly via Facebook or Instagram with an offer of a casting or modeling job. If someone asks you to send suggestive photos of yourself, pay him or her any amount of money, or offers you a large amount of money, it is most likely a scam. Additionally, if the message you receive is full of grammatical errors or promises you a meeting or job with a big-name photographer or designer, these are also warning signs that indicate a potential scam.
Bogus Agency Contracts
Most agency contracts are one-sided in favor of the agency, not the model. Do not sign an agency contract without first getting the advice of a lawyer, and know that the terms of an agency contract are negotiable. A legitimate agency will give you adequate time to review the contract with an attorney and offer any proposed changes before you decide whether to sign with them. As of June 19, 2025, agencies operating in New York State are held to new legal standards under the Fashion Workers Act. Click here to learn more.
General Safety
Most important, you should NEVER arrange to meet alone with someone who you do not know about potential modeling work. If you are represented by an agency, be sure to field any work-related requests by your agent. Under the New York State Fashion Workers Act, clients must allow you to bring an agent or chaperone with you on set.