In the digital age, scams have become an unfortunate part of everyday life. From phishing emails to fake lottery wins, fraudsters are constantly finding new ways to trick people out of their hard-earned money. One phone number, 07860027838, has been at the centre of a long-running scam that has left many Brits frustrated and out of pocket. Here’s what we know.
The Broadway Studios Scam: A Free Makeover That Comes at a Cost
The scam revolves around a text message offering a complimentary makeover and photoshoot at a place called Broadway Studios. The message typically reads:
“You’ve been recommended for a complimentary Makeover and Photo Shoot experience at Broadway Studios! Reply BOOK today and you’ll also get up to 5 FREE photos!”
At first glance, it might seem like a tempting offer. Who wouldn’t want a free makeover and professional photos? But as countless reports show, this is anything but a genuine opportunity.
How the Scam Works
The scam is simple but effective. Victims receive a text message from the number 07860027838, offering them a free makeover and photoshoot. If they reply “BOOK,” they are often asked to provide personal details, including payment information, under the guise of securing their spot. Some victims have reported being bombarded with follow-up emails and calls from someone claiming to be a manager named Iqra, who pressures them into sharing PayPal details or making upfront payments.
One victim, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their experience:
“I received a text offering a free photoshoot. I thought it sounded too good to be true, but I replied anyway. Next thing I know, I’m being asked for my PayPal details. Thankfully, I didn’t fall for it, but it was a close call.”
A History of Deception
The scam isn’t new. Reports of this number being used for fraudulent activity date back to 2019, with the earliest recorded complaint on 14th May 2019. Since then, the number has been linked to hundreds of similar complaints, with victims reporting everything from phishing attempts to outright financial loss.
One particularly alarming incident occurred in December 2024, when a victim reported that after visiting the supposed Broadway Studios website, all their open browser tabs were replaced with a porn site. The victim managed to recover their tabs by reinstating their security protections, but the experience left them shaken.
Emotional and Financial Toll
The scam doesn’t just affect people financially; it can also take an emotional toll. One victim claimed that the scam caused their son, Heeseung, to suffer from depression. While the exact details of this case are unclear, it highlights the far-reaching impact of such fraudulent schemes.
A Pattern of Behaviour
What’s particularly concerning is the persistence of the scammers. Many victims have reported being bombarded with follow-up messages and emails, even after blocking the number. One victim wrote:
“The manager keeps bombarding me with emails to book a free photoshoot. This is a scam. Ignore at all costs!!!!”
The scammers also appear to adapt their tactics over time. During the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, they tweaked their message to prey on people’s desire for something to look forward to:
“We could all do with something special to look forward to after lockdown! You’ve been recommended for a FREE Makeover and Photo Shoot Experience at Broadway Studios!”
Other Scams Linked to the Number
While the Broadway Studios scam is the most common complaint, the number has also been linked to other fraudulent activities. In 2021, it was used to send fake PayPal messages, with scammers claiming to be from the payment platform. PayPal has since confirmed that these messages were not legitimate.
In 2023, the number was used in a “protein works” scam, where victims were offered discounted protein supplements in exchange for personal information. And as far back as 2022, it was linked to fake Shell Energy texts.
What Can You Do?
If you receive a message from 07860027838, the advice is clear: do not engage. Block the number and report it to your mobile provider. You can also report the scam to Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.
A Warning to Others
The sheer volume of complaints about this number is a stark reminder of the importance of staying vigilant. As one victim put it:
“Scam, avoid at all costs!!!! You’ve been recommended for a complimentary Makeover and Photo Shoot experience at Broadway Studios! Reply BOOK today and you’ll also get up to 5 FREE photos!”
While the offer might sound tempting, it’s almost certainly too good to be true. In the words of another victim:
“Ignore. Using lockdown now too (pathetic).”
Conclusion
The story of 07860027838 is a cautionary tale for us all. In a world where scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and cautious. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. And if you ever receive a message from this number, remember: don’t reply, don’t engage, and don’t fall for it.
Stay safe, and always think twice before clicking that link or replying to that text.