Lights, camera, scam! Spot virtual casting call scams

You never know where your big Hollywood break will come from. But it probably won’t start with an unexpected text message about a virtual casting call. That’s likely a scam. Learn the cues to avoid this type of phishing scam.

We’ve heard from people who’ve gotten text messages from a “talent scout” offering auditions for a well-known movie like “The Devil Wears Prada 2” or a show like “Ted Lasso.” The unexpected text message might ask if you’re still available tomorrow for a virtual open call (you never were). If you respond, you might end up in a virtual “audition” that’s actually a high-pressure sales pitch to sign up for bogus photo shoots or fake acting classes. But first, the plot twist: There’s always a reason you have to pay or hand over bank information before you participate in the casting. Paying to get a job is always a sign of a scam. Real companies won’t ask you to pay anything upfront.

Here are things you can do to avoid a casting call text scam: