‘NEFARIOUS SCHEME’

Hollywood Targeted by Coronavirus Scammers Seeking Nudes

The union warned members of fake casting notices “purporting to be seeking models for Paris Fashion Week.”

SAG-AFTRA has warned its members about a scam the union says uses the COVID-19 pandemic to solicit nude audition videos and passport information for a fake fashion show in Paris.

“SAG-AFTRA has been made aware of fake casting notices purporting to be seeking models for Paris Fashion Week,” the union said in an advisory to members. “This notice references SAG-AFTRA and uses the COVID-19 crisis to solicit self-tape ‘auditions.’”

“Talent that respond to the casting notice reportedly are being asked to provide passport information and nude ‘audition videos,’” SAG-AFTRA writes, adding later, “We find it appalling that someone would use this global crisis to take advantage of our members and those who aspire to work under our contracts. It is even more troubling that someone would do so in order to obtain personally identifiable information and nude videos that can be used for nefarious and salacious purposes.”

The union stated that none of its franchised agents are authorized to solicit sexual materials from members. “To the best of our knowledge, no union franchised agent is associated with this nefarious scheme, but we urge members to report any concerns they may have about their agents as it relates to this, or any other, issue, by calling the SAG-AFTRA Professional Representatives Department at (323) 549-6745 or by emailing us at agency@sagaftra.org,” the note ends. “It is even more critical now, when individuals with ill intent may seek to take advantage of the current production shutdown and everyone’s desire to return to work.”

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Laura BradleySenior Entertainment Reporter

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