In recent years, social media has served as a powerful tool for connecting various groups and individuals. However, this platform has increasingly become a target for scammers, particularly when it comes to crafting groups. One of the most prevalent scams involves fake accounts posting openings for stallholders at popular makers markets, such as The Forum in Norwich. These scammers convince individuals to pay for a stall, only for the victims to later find out that they have been blocked by the scammer’s account.
Staff members of The Forum recently posted warnings on social media, alerting the public about a fake Christmas Craft Market that was being advertised online. Local councillor Gary Blundell, who represents Costessey at a district and town level, has spoken up about the numerous scam posts that appear on a daily basis in city Facebook groups. He explains that people often pay money via PayPal, only to find themselves blocked with little chance of getting a refund.
Gem Spalding-Tunnicliffe, the owner of the craft shop Piglet & Chestnut and a regular participant in local events, has also noticed an increase in these scam posts. She explains that this time of year is especially susceptible to such scams. Gem recently interacted with a scammer regarding a fake event and identified several red flags that indicate it is not real. She emphasizes the impact of these scams on small businesses, as they not only lose money but also waste a significant amount of time and effort in preparation for these events.
Gem shares some tips for identifying scammers in these situations. Firstly, scammers ask individuals to privately message them rather than sharing information publicly. They also require payment via PayPal but only through ‘friends and family’, which offers little protection for the payer. Moreover, they are usually unable to provide legitimate website or social media links. Finally, one may notice similarly worded posts by different people, as scammers often use fake accounts. Gem advises people to visit the Trading Standards section of Norfolk County Council’s website for further information and advice.
Overall, the rise of scammers targeting crafting groups on social media has become a concerning trend. As individuals continue to fall victim to these scams, it is crucial to remain vigilant and aware of the warning signs. By following Gem’s tips and seeking guidance from reliable sources like trading standards organizations, individuals can protect themselves and their businesses from falling prey to these fraudulent activities.
