Modeling agency scams and how ModelContracts keeps bookings safe
Most modeling agency scams ask the model for money: a portfolio package, a registration fee, a mandatory class. On ModelContracts models never pay, every account is verified, and every booking is a signed contract. This page explains how we check people and what to watch for anywhere you look for modeling work.
How we verify every account
Safety starts before anyone can apply or post a casting. Both sides go through checks, and the checks are tied to the account, not to a single booking.
- Models confirm their identity with a government ID and a matching selfie, and their date of birth is checked.
- Brand accounts verify the person and the company behind them before a casting goes live.
- Profiles that do not match their ID, or castings that break our rules, are removed.
Adults only, always 18 and over
ModelContracts works only with adults. Every model is 18 or older with age verified, and so is every person who runs a brand account. We do not accept castings for minors, and we do not list profiles of people under 18 under any circumstances.
Models never pay a cent
Real agencies and booking platforms earn from clients, not from talent. On ModelContracts the brand pays a plan and an agency fee per booking. Models pay nothing to apply, nothing to keep a profile, nothing for contracts and nothing to receive payouts. If anyone claiming to work with us asks a model for money, it is not us. Read more on the page to apply to a modeling agency.
Fashion and commercial work only
We book fashion, commercial, e-commerce, fitness and event work. Explicit or adult content is not allowed, and castings that hint at it are taken down. Swimwear and similar categories are listed openly in the casting and in the contract, so a model knows the wardrobe before applying.
Every booking is a signed agreement
A scam relies on vague promises. A booking on ModelContracts states the date, hours, overtime, cancellation terms, rate and the usage of the images, and both sides sign it before the shoot. See what goes into a modeling contract and how the model release form fits in.
Red flags of modeling scams
These signs show up again and again. Any one of them is a reason to stop and check.
For a longer guide, read our post on modeling agency scams red flags.
- 01 An upfront fee to join, to be represented or to get on a website.
- 02 A required photo package or class from a specific photographer or school.
- 03 Pressure to sign or pay on the same day.
- 04 A request to meet alone at a private address with no contract.
- 05 Promises of guaranteed work or guaranteed income.
- 06 Requests for explicit photos, or for photos of someone under 18.
- 07 Payment in gift cards, crypto or a wire to a personal account.
How to report a problem
If a casting, message or profile on ModelContracts looks wrong, report it from the panel or email support@modelcontracts.com with the link and a short description. We review every report and remove accounts that break our rules. If something feels wrong, report the account to us and stop all contact.
FAQ
Do models pay anything on ModelContracts?
No. Applying, keeping a profile, signing contracts and receiving payouts are free for models.
How do you check that a model is an adult?
Every model verifies a government ID with a matching selfie and a checked date of birth before they can apply to castings.
Are brands verified too?
Yes. Brand accounts verify the person and the company before any casting goes live.
What should I do if someone asks me for money in your name?
Do not pay. Email support@modelcontracts.com with the details so we can act on it.
Book or apply on contract
Brands hire verified adults on signed agreements, and models never pay.