7 Signs of a Fake Webcam Job
The adult entertainment industry is full of sleazy business practices and people who will try to take advantage of you while you are new to the business. Some of these signs may seem like no-brainers, but it is important to be aware of possible scams when you are looking for your first webcam model job with a reputable agency.
To stay on the safe side, remember to check out the sites that I have personally reviewed on your behalf (project in process). If you choose to work elsewhere, however, I want to make sure you are aware that a cam site is definitely a scam if…
1. They don’t ask for proper ID to verify that you are at least 18 years of age.
Any legitimate cam site will require you to upload signed copies of a Model Agreement form, as well as copies of both sides of your government issued photo ID, a clear head shot, and a clear photograph of you holding your readable ID beside your face.
2. They guarantee income.
Your income on a legitimate cam site will always be based on your own performance, effort and consistency developing your fan base. The site may advertise a potential income, like UP TO $400 daily or UP TO $10,000 a week. These numbers are not unattainable; they just require some hard work and patience on your part. A guarantee, however, is a lie.
On a related side note: There was at one time a small webcam modeling agency that offered an hourly wage instead of commission. It no longer exists, probably because offering an hourly wage for this type of work is impractical.
3. They ask for any money from you upfront.
Becoming a webcam model will not cost you anything beyond the cost of your Internet connection, webcam and any outfits or toys you may want to pick up. If a cam site asks for a dime upfront, they are trying to scam you.
The only time a cam site might charge you is during payment processing, depending on the payment method you choose during sign up. For example, if you select to receive payment via FedEx or Wire transfer they might take a fee off of your payout and this is not unreasonable. Most sites will send you a check for free within the US by regular mail.
4. They offer to mail you an advance.
This is a common scam, but worth mentioning as it does show up in the webcam modeling business as well. If they are pushing to mail you a check before you have even started working, it is an attempt fraud.
5. The site is full of poor grammar or broken links.
If a company’s website does not appear professional, it is safe to assume it is not.
6. Your welcome email comes from a free web-based email platform such as Hotmail, Yahoo, or Gmail.
This is highly unprofessional and a sure sign of illegitimacy.
7. They ask you for a “webcam interview.”
Legitimate webcam modeling agencies do not normally conduct interviews. If you are asked for an interview by webcam, they are most likely trying to scam you not out of your money, but out of your clothes.
On a related side note: You may also encounter this on the job. Members will try to convince you that they need a “preview” before they can decide whether they want a show with you. The bottom line here is you NEVER have to show or do ANYTHING without FIRST being paid for it.
If you notice any of these signs while considering working with any particular cam site, stay far away. Don’t be swayed by seemingly plausible explanations. If you have any doubt about a cam site, look elsewhere.
Thank You For Sharing
Thank you for sharing this post. We really do appreciate it!
Please share the names of any fraudulent or untrustworthy sites you encounter. I’ll do some research of my own as well and begin to compile a list for your reference below this article.
Webcam Model Jobs to Stay Away From:
Camfly 1/10
More to come!
Stay safe and happy camming!
About Author
Angie
I'm a 26 year old Canadian, musician, and camgirl. I quit my day job in July 2013 thanks to webcam modeling, and I created U Camgirl to share what I've learned along the way. I'm here to answer questions and help anyone interested in pursuing webcam work.
I once ran into the whole “video interview” thing. I had just started camming, and this “girl” enters the room, watches for a while, friendly chats, nothing bad. Then she says that she works for FigLeaves (real nice site btw), and is recruiting for modeling. So I take a second, Google her name, and the company, everything checks out. Trade emails, and later she says she wants to do a preliminary interview. Smells fishy, but what the hey, if it sets off any red alerts I’ll hang up. 3 or 4 questions in, she asks to see me naked. I said thanks for your time, and hung up. Emailed the company, asking if this person was really with them and really recruiting, and they said no.
Just wanted to post my experience as a cautionary tale for anyone who reads this. If they really want it, they will get creative. Don’t do anything without payment up front, and always do your research!
Wow, I’m so glad you didn’t fall for that scheme! I’ve heard a lot of similar stories unfortunately.
But you’re absolutely right – they get nothing until the money’s in my hand (so to speak lol). I hope more ladies see those red flags and have the sense to hang up like you did. I know it can be easy to get sucked in to something like that, especially if you really need the money and/or are really excited about what they’re saying. The best lies are mixed with a little something true. Thanks for sharing your story Sunni! Cheers 