12/08/2025

Lights, camera, scam! Spot virtual casting call scams

FTC

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.