Parents Warned Of Facebook Model Scam

By Donal Walsh, School Days

25 January 2011 - Parents have been warned that there is a scam circulating on social network site Facebook targeting children.

Last week, Leicestershire Police revealed that fake modelling agencies are using the social media website to entice youngsters to pose in their underwear by promising them a career in modelling.

Facebook profiles have been set up which have logos and brand names to appear genuine, with people emailing children asking them to send indecent photos of themselves to the agencies.

Detective sergeant Ed Jones, member of the Paedophile and Online Investigation team at Leicestershire Constabulary, said reputable modelling agencies would "never approach you in this way".

He told children not to pose for pictures in their underwear, stating: "You have no control when posting photos on the internet where they may end up and they could appear on the internet forever."

A spokesman for Facebook stated that the safety of its members is its "top priority".

This news follows findings by the European Commission released last week, which recommended internet companies to provide more support to protect young people online.