Beware of Tattoo Scammers: How to Protect Yourself When Booking

At Alchemy Tattoo & Gallery, we care deeply about your safety and experience, both in and out of the tattoo chair. Recently, we’ve noticed a rise in scam accounts impersonating our artists, attempting to take deposits or even full payments from unsuspecting clients. These scammers often use fake profiles that closely mimic our artists’ names and images to appear legitimate.

One of our artists, Amy Porter (@amyporterart), currently has four active impersonator accounts circulating. These fake accounts are messaging clients directly via DM in apps to collect deposits and even request full tattoo payments before an appointment is officially scheduled this is not how we conduct business.

example of fake account

amy's real tiktok account

What You Should Watch Out For

Scammers are becoming more convincing, but there are clear red flags to look for. Please be cautious if:

• You receive an unsolicited DM from an artist asking for payment

• You’re asked to pay through unofficial apps like Cash App, Zelle, Venmo, etc.

• The account handle looks slightly off or unfamiliar (extra underscores, misspellings, etc.) Claims to be an assistant you're sending money to

• You’re pressured to send money quickly to "hold a spot"

How to Book Safely with Our Artists

To protect yourself and ensure your booking is legitimate, follow these steps:

1. Confirm the artist's official account and name.Every artist at Alchemy Tattoo & Gallery uses consistent handles across platforms and will never message you from a suspicious or newly created account. Example: Amy’s only official Instagram is @amyporterart

Alchemy's offical TikTok is @alchemy_tattoo_gallery

2. Double-check the booking method. Each artist books differently, but we never require payment through unverified third-party apps. Clients are directed to:

• Our official booking platform (Vagaro)

• Or email directly through info@alchemytattoogallery.com or the artist's verified contact info

  
  
  
  
  
  

• If you're ever unsure, you can always contact us through our website to confirm you're communicating with the correct artist.

3. Verify the artist’s current booking status.If an account claims to have last-minute openings or pushes you to book immediately, take a moment to cross-reference with the artist’s website, Instagram bio, or our studio updates. Many of our artists are booked out weeks or months in advance, and surprise openings are rare. These openings will be posted on an artist's Instagram story. Feel free to verrify with the studio if something seems off.

4. Ask questions.If something doesn’t feel right, you’re not bothering us by double-checking. We’re happy to confirm if an account is legitimate or not.

Our Official TikTok Account @alchemy_tattoo_gallery (11k followers)

Scam account see the extra underscore in the name

Apply These Steps to All Tattoo Bookings, Not Just Ours

Scammers don’t just target our studio, they target all popular tattoo artists, especially those with larger social media followings. Whether you’re booking with someone at Alchemy or another studio, these safety steps apply:

• Always verify the artist's real account and booking process

• Never send payments to unofficial accounts or apps

• Don’t assume a DM = a real appointment

• When in doubt, reach out directly through the studio’s official website

If You Spot a Scam Account

Please report the account on Instagram and send us a screenshot so we can help notify others. Your support helps protect our community.

Thank you for trusting Alchemy Tattoo & Gallery. We’re honored to create artwork for you, and we’ll always prioritize your safety, trust, and peace of mind.

If you’re ever unsure about a booking, email us at info@alchemytattoogallery.com or visit alchemytattoogallery.com

Find our offical TikTok and Instgram below

Official TikTok Page

Official Instagram Page