Hey guys,
I thought I would pass this along as it has proven successful for me. I always contact a provider initially by text. I have started texting the following to the provider once the donation has been discussed and I feel we are going to schedule an appointment.
Okay. That's a fair price. I just need to verify your pics are legit. Can you email me a photo of yourself holding a piece of paper w/ today's date written on it?
This simple text has changed the way I do business. One simple step. My last few BP appointments have all been good because I could verify who the actual provider was. In most cases, they were using fake pics but were close in enough in resemblance. Now you can see for yourself in advance. While not 100% always the case, only the providers who have something to hide are the ones who will not agree to this. Hell, even the highly rated providers here on ECCIE use questionable pics that are somewhat old, professionally shot, that no longer resemble their current weight, etc...
Good luck guys and be safe!