It's insane if they don't actually research the okays contact them, agreed. I don't understand how a Facebook account is any better. That could be anyone, and I wouldn't know until they showed up when it's too late.
I don't accept references from just anyone either. If she has no history of reviews and nothing to lose, wouldn't benefit anyone.
I screen my clients, but if I have to wait for a smoke signal, it's just not worth the risk.
A dozen agencies screen the same way, and they are not in jail.