Fake Model Casting Agency Under Fire After Disturbing Video Goes Viral

A fraudulent modelling agency has come under renewed scrutiny after a disturbing video began circulating online this week. The video, now trending across multiple social media platforms, shows a young woman identified as Mpho from Thembisa, Gauteng, being interviewed on camera in what appears to be a professional casting setup.

Police Warning Issued Weeks Prior

A few weeks ago, the South African Police Service (SAPS) issued a public warning about suspicious modelling recruitment operations targeting young women and men across the country. Authorities cautioned that several so-called agencies were luring aspiring models with promises of instant fame, quick cash and international exposure, only to pressure them into compromising situations.

The agency in question is now at the centre of fresh controversy following the viral video.

Interview Takes Uncomfortable Turn

In the trending clip, Mpho appears nervous but composed as the interview begins. The questions at first are harmless and even charming. She is asked about her favourite kind of date, her inspirational model, and who she would choose to spend a day with if given the opportunity. She smiles shyly, answering thoughtfully, seemingly unaware of what is to come.

Viewers say the atmosphere changes gradually. The tone of the interview becomes more suggestive. The questions shift from lifestyle and ambition to increasingly personal and uncomfortable territory. At one point, Mpho visibly hesitates. Her body language stiffens. She pauses before answering. It is in these subtle moments that many online commentators say they noticed regret flicker across her face.

Financial Incentive Keeps Participants Engaged

Sources familiar with the production claim that participants are promised R10,000 at the end of the shoot — money that can be life-changing for unemployed youth desperate for opportunities. In the video, insiders say Mpho confided that she had second thoughts midway through filming, but the promise of payment kept her seated under the bright studio lights.

Exploitation Disguised as Opportunity

SAPS previously warned that these operations often disguise themselves as legitimate casting calls. They advertise heavily on social media, asking hopefuls to send photos and basic information. Once selected, candidates are invited to “auditions” that quickly veer away from professional modelling standards.

Community leaders in Thembisa have expressed concern, saying young people are being targeted precisely because of high unemployment and limited opportunities. “They are selling dreams,” one resident said. “But behind those dreams is exploitation.”

Ongoing Investigation and Public Warning

While investigations are ongoing, authorities have urged anyone who has interacted with suspicious agencies to report the matter to their nearest police station. They also warned parents to remain vigilant and to verify agencies before allowing their children to attend castings.

Safe Alternatives for Earning Income Online

The controversy has sparked a broader conversation about how young South Africans can earn money safely and legitimately online, without putting themselves at risk. Experts recommend focusing on verified platforms and skill-based opportunities instead of “quick cash” promises.

Here are five genuine ways people can work for money online:

1. Freelancing through reputable platforms — offering skills such as graphic design, writing, video editing or virtual assistance.
2. Online tutoring — in subjects like mathematics, languages or exam preparation through established education platforms.
3. Selling handmade or digital products — via verified e-commerce marketplaces.
4. Remote customer service or administrative work — for legitimate companies with traceable registration details.
5. Content creation — on recognised platforms where income comes from transparent advertising and brand partnerships.

Expert Advice on Avoiding Scams

Cybercrime specialists emphasise the importance of checking company registration numbers, reading online reviews and never paying upfront “registration fees” to agencies promising modelling contracts.

As the video of Mpho continues to circulate, many viewers say it serves as a cautionary tale. What started as a seemingly normal interview turned into a situation that left a young woman visibly uncomfortable — all for the promise of R10,000.

The message from authorities is clear: if an opportunity feels rushed, secretive or too good to be true, it probably is. South Africa’s struggling youth deserve safe, transparent opportunities — not traps disguised as casting calls.