"Your child has a bright face, we'd like to invite them for a casting for a major film/ad." — If you receive such a message, be extremely cautious. This is a scam rapidly spreading on Facebook and TikTok.
The Child Model Scam Script
Scammers create fake pages mimicking model agencies, TV stations, or major brands — then directly contact parents who post photos of their young children on social media.
- Approach: Compliment the child's appearance, send grand "project" information.
- Build trust: Send fake contracts, studio photos, videos of previous castings (stolen from the internet).
- Collect fees: Request parents pay "casting fees", "training fees", or "portfolio fees" of $100-$500.
- Disappear: After receiving money, block all contact or continue requesting additional fees.
Warning Signs
- Requiring fees before casting (legitimate companies NEVER charge casting fees).
- Newly created page/website with little genuine engagement.
- No clear office address to visit in person.
- Rushing for payment because "only 2 spots left".
VTrust Advice
Legitimate model agencies and TV stations NEVER require parents to pay casting fees. If interested, visit the company office in person to verify. Don't let love for your child become a vulnerability for scammers to exploit.