Warning issued over ‘free tattoo’ scam targeting Newcastle-under-Lyme Facebook groups

Residents in Newcastle-under-Lyme are being warned about a suspected tattoo scam circulating on local Facebook groups, with people being offered apparently free tattoos before being asked to pay a fee to secure a booking.

The posts appear to be designed to attract people by offering a “FREE TATTOO” in exchange for becoming a tattoo model, with the advertiser claiming they only want an “appointment fee”.

One example currently being shared features an advert offering free tattoos, including couple and solo tattoos, while asking potential customers to send a direct message if they are interested.

However, people are being warned not to send any money.

The scam follows a pattern seen elsewhere online, where people are offered free or heavily discounted tattoos but are then asked to pay a booking or sitting fee.

The attraction is obvious, a free tattoo can sound like a great deal, particularly when the only apparent cost is a small booking fee.

But that is precisely what makes these posts potentially effective.

If the tattoo is genuinely free, there should be no reason to hand over money simply to secure the appointment.

People should also be extremely cautious about clicking links sent through private messages, providing personal information or making payments to individuals they have not independently verified.

What should you do?

Do not pay the booking fee.

If you see one of these posts:

Don't send money or banking details.

- Don't click suspicious payment links.

- Don't provide unnecessary personal information.

- Report the post and account to Facebook.

- Warn others in the group so they don't fall for it.

- If you have already paid, contact your bank immediately and report the incident.

The warning for Newcastle-under-Lyme residents is simple: if a Facebook post promises you a free tattoo but asks you to pay a booking fee first, don't take the bait.

Do not send the money.