Fraudulent schemes have emerged as a concern for artisans in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.), particularly with fake craft fair scams targeting local artists. Recently, needle-felt crafter Margaret Brady fell victim to one such scam while attempting to participate in a craft fair in Vernon Bridge.
Scam Highlights
Brady, a novice in the craft fair scene, decided to secure a booth for which she sent an e-transfer of $90. After experiencing issues during her payment attempts and receiving delayed responses from organizers, Brady grew suspicious. Her investigation revealed that the advertised venue, Red Sands Floral Farm, had no knowledge of the craft fair.
Community Response
Following Brady’s revelation, other local crafters shared similar experiences. Sea glass artist Shannon Classen recounted her own challenges, mentioning that she had to block around 20 fake accounts while organizing a craft fair in Hunter River. “The majority of artists do this to put food on the table,” she said, stressing the emotional and financial impacts of such scams.
RCMP Alert
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has noted a rise in online fraud incidents like these. Cpl. Gavin Moore, the media relations officer for P.E.I., emphasized the need for caution when navigating online advertisements and links. He advised artists to remain vigilant, particularly about how they access the sites for craft fairs.
- Key warning signs of scams include:
- Vendor application forms lacking dates or location.
- Suspicious email addresses.
- Social media accounts with few or no posts.
Staying Ahead of Scammers
Brady, now more informed about potential scams, plans to continue attending craft fairs. Despite her financial loss, she hopes to raise awareness among fellow crafters to prevent further incidents. “I’m hoping that other people will be more careful when they’re applying to these things,” she remarked.
A Call for Vigilance
As crafting communities grow in P.E.I., so do the efforts of fraudsters. Artists are encouraged to share their experiences and stay informed about the warning signs of these scams. Brady’s story serves as a crucial reminder of the need for vigilance in the face of financial deception in local markets.
