Beware of Fake Market and Fair Advertisements – Part 3
At IOMST, we do our best to provide helpful and up-to-date information for our members, but we cannot be held responsible for any issues that arise from the markets and events listed.
Please note that we do not charge or receive any fees for listing these events, and we rely on the organisers to provide accurate information. We also have limited resources with which to update and fully research or vet each individual listing. If you are unsure about an event, feel free to ask us if we know the event personally or anyone who has traded at these markets or events.
It’s unfortunately that time again. Fake market and fair advertisements are making their rounds on social media, and once again, traders are at risk of falling victim to scams.
While we’ve already addressed this issue in previous blogs, the rise of fake events continues, so we’re back to help you stay informed and safe.
What’s Happening Now?
Scammers have become increasingly sophisticated in promoting fake events online. They’re using social media platforms, especially Facebook, to create fraudulent events that appear legitimate. These scammers often promise traders prime spots at popular markets and events, but once payment is made, the event either doesn’t happen, or the organiser disappears without a trace.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
- Check the Facebook Profile and Social Media Pages – Look at the Facebook profile of the person sharing the post. Do they have many friends? Are they new to Facebook? Does their profile look like it was just set up? If you notice any of these red flags, be cautious. Additionally, check for any social media pages linked to the event. New or barely active pages are often signs of scams.
- Too Good to Be True – If the stall fee is unusually cheap or the event promises massive footfall with no evidence to back it up, be cautious. Many crafters, especially new ones, expect affordable fees, but if it seems too low compared to other events or promises high attendance without any proof, it’s worth double-checking.
- Vague or Missing Details – If there are no details about the event location, organiser, or contact information, that’s a huge red flag. Always make sure you can get in touch with someone directly for more information.
- Requests for Payment via Untraceable Methods – If they ask for payment through methods like PayPal ‘friends & family,’ bank transfers, or gift cards, be suspicious. These are common payment methods used by scammers that offer no buyer protection.
- Pressure Tactics – Scammers often try to rush you into making a payment by creating urgency, such as “limited spaces left” or “book now before it’s too late.” If you’re feeling pressured, take a step back and do your research.
- No Confirmed Trader List or Real Testimonials – While new markets may not have an established trader list or testimonials, legitimate organisers should still be able to provide proof of their professionalism. If the event has never been held before, the organiser should be transparent about their background, offer references, and provide clear event details like permits, insurance, and past work in related fields. Be wary if the event organiser can’t provide this information.
How to Protect Yourself
Call the Venue – Always contact the venue directly to confirm whether the event is actually happening. If the venue confirms the event is legitimate, that’s a good sign—but it’s just the beginning.
Verify the Organiser – Ask the venue for the organiser’s contact details. A legitimate event organiser will have clear, verifiable information that can be checked.
Research the Event – Google the event name and organiser. Check for past events, photos, or independent reviews. Don’t rely on the event’s own posts as proof of legitimacy.
Don’t Rush to Pay – If an event is pressuring you to pay quickly, take a step back and give yourself time to verify the details. A legitimate organiser will give you time to research and make an informed decision.
Stay Safe
It’s important to remain vigilant and cautious when booking events online, especially through social media. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. And as always, if you encounter a suspicious event, feel free to let us know so we can keep other traders informed and safe.
See below what has been brought to our attention:
If you have any more please e-mail us info@iomst.ie we will add them here! Good look keep safe!
Grainne & Greg
24/03/2025
24/03/2025
Fab Felis
I sent an email to the real organiser warning them and reported the scammer (not that FB ever gets rid of these.11/03/2025
23/03/2025
Common name on the adverts are CATHERINE HERTLEY and an email hartleycatherine855@gmail.com
27/09/2024
Balbriggan Pumpkin Patch
20/09/2024
19/07/2024
16/07/2024
17/07/2024
Chapel Lane Market
15/07/2024
Slane Castle
04/2024
Spring Craft Fair: 25th & 26th May 2024, Boyne Community school Trim. (no event taking place)
PayPal link they sent says ‘donations’, which means that you are not covered (PayPal says that very clearly)