Beware of Scam Modeling and Talent Agencies: How to Spot Fraud

Aspiring models often dream of landing that great model or talent agent to represent them by securing a deal with such an agency. Unfortunately, not all model and talent agencies are legitimate.

The people behind these scams use deceptive tactics to profit from aspiring talent without any real representation or opportunities. They have been on such a rise that agencies sometimes put out ***FRAUD ALERTS*** on their websites and socials to warn people of these scams.

Red Flags of Modeling and Talent Agencies:

1. Classified Ads There have been individuals falsely claiming to be a representative or scout for modeling and talent agencies. Sometimes these false agents contact hopeful models and actors through an online classified advertising services (i.e. Craigslist, Kijiji) or social media platforms. Modeling and talent agents rarely advertise their services to the general public.

2. A Stranger on The Street If you are approached randomly in public by a talent agent, this could be a red flag. We’re not saying it can’t happen, but most reputable model and talent agencies do not approach models and actors in this manner.

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3. Confirm Identity If you have been approached by an individual claiming to be a part of the agency, you should that notify the agency immediately to verify their identity.

4. Check The Email Address Reputable agencies will rarely contact potential models or talent through a free email account (i.e. gmail, hotmail, protonmail etc). They usually only use emails associated with the agency’s domain name.

5. Requests Be very aware of requests such as upfront payments, credit card information, Skype interviews, images in nude/lingerie, or any other type of personal information.

What to Do if You Suspect a Scam:

• Research / Due Diligence: Check online reviews and seek opinions from reputable modeling and talent communities or talent who have worked with the agency. When vetting the agency, make sure the contact details received (i.e., the agency’s website) match the details found from reputable sources.

• Consult Professionals: Reach out to organizations such as the Consumer Protection Ontario, Talent Agents & Managers Association of Canada (TAMAC) or law firms with experience in the model and talent community to verify the agency’s legitimacy.

• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, walk away. Your career should be built on trust, and no legitimate agent will pressure you for money.

• No Meet Up: If you propose meeting with the agent and they won’t give you an opportunity to meet in person, it might be a scam.

By staying vigilant and informed, you can protect yourself from scam modeling and talent agencies.

If you need help reviewing a modelling or talent agency agreement, we can help, and if we think it might be a scam, before spending much time reviewing the agreement, we will work with you to confirm that the prospective agency partner is legitimate and not a scam.

© 2025 Edwards Creative Law, LLP

Updated to May 5, 2025

Edwards Creative Law is Canada’s Entertainment Law Boutique™, providing legal services to Canadians, and international clients who partner with Canadians, in the Film & Television, Music, Video Games and Apps, Publishing and Literary industries. 

For more information or to set up a minute Discovery Call with one of our entertainment lawyers please feel free to Contact Us.

* This blog is for general informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. Please contact Edwards Creative Law or another lawyer, if you wish to apply these concepts to your specific circumstances.

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