URGENT UPDATE: Residents of Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, are sounding the alarm over a disturbing TikTok scheme that has left them feeling unsafe. Since September 2023, at least 20 young women have knocked on doors in the neighborhood, believing they have scheduled hair appointments through a TikTok account named “Nariah the Hairstylist.”
Jearold Hersey, a local resident, expressed his growing concern: “Mostly concerned for safety. My family is here. This is freaking my son out.” The situation escalated when these women were instructed to send a $25 deposit via Cash App before receiving an address. Shockingly, that address turned out to be Hersey’s home.
“It’s kind of nerve-racking because you don’t really know who is coming to the door,” he added, emphasizing the fear and uncertainty gripping the community. In response, neighbors have begun posting warnings on their doors, alerting potential victims that their address has been exploited in this online scam.
Hersey described the unsettling encounters, stating, “Sometimes people see the sign and go away, and sometimes people bang on the door and they’re yelling in front of their door.” The residents are growing increasingly frustrated and anxious, fearing for their safety as the unwanted visitors persist.
Action News reached out to the TikTok account associated with the scheme, where a woman confirmed she would provide the location after receiving the deposit. However, when pressed about the scam allegations, she abruptly hung up.
“This isn’t cool. It’s not fair to the people, not just the people who are getting ripped off for money; we feel unsafe as well,” Hersey lamented. He has taken it upon himself to report the TikTok page to the platform, urging others to do the same.
The Philadelphia Police Department is aware of the situation and advises anyone who believes they have fallen victim to this scam to file an official report. As this unsettling story continues to develop, local residents remain on high alert, hoping for swift action against the perpetrators.
Stay tuned for updates on this alarming situation as authorities work to ensure the safety of the Northern Liberties community.
