Market scam making the rounds
Fredericton Boyce Farmers’ Market issues alert about fraudulent email that's circulating
Fraudsters are trying to capitalize on the popularity of Fredericton’s downtown farmers’ market, trying to dupe people into thinking there are vendors’ slots up for grabs.
The Fredericton Boyce Farmers’ Market issued an advisory through social media Tuesday, warning members of the public of a scam that’s circulating and using the iconic institution’s reputation to perpetrate the scheme.
“We’ve been made aware of a false representation of the Fredericton Boyce Farmers’ Market circulating via email,” the Facebook post stated.
“The email is claiming to be recruiting vendors for the market.”
It noted that applications for vendor slots at the Fredericton market are only processed through its official website.
“Please do not access our website through links you were emailed. Instead go directly to our page using your preferred search engine,” the advisory said.
“We do not accept applications, payments or communications through personal Facebook accounts or personal email addresses.”
The market also warned against sending e-transfers or payments to anyone claiming to represent it outside of its official channels.
“If something feels off, trust your instincts and double-check before engaging,” the post stated.
If people have doubts about information or communications they’ve received about the market, they can contact the organization directly by calling 506-451-1815 or emailing manager@frederictonfarmersmarket.ca.
“It has been reported to the Canadian Anti Fraud [Centre],” market co-ordinator Buffy Wasson told the Fredericton Independent on Tuesday.
Don MacPherson can be contacted at ftonindependent@gmail.com.