Beware of suspicious posts on social media, West Nipissing residents.
So warned the municipality in a recent release. The town is warning people that certain posts regarding purchasing vendor space at an upcoming craft show “appear to be phishing attempts or potential scams.”
The municipality’s release clarified, “A post was recently published on a local Facebook group claiming that a craft show would be taking place at the Recreation Centre in March, asking vendors to sign up. The information is false.”
Indeed, there is no craft show booked for that date; the Municipality made clear. The post appeared yesterday on the "Everything Sturgeon Falls & Surrounding Ont Connecting Communities" Facebook page. It was posted by a user listed as Jane Owell Lamper.
The post noted, “We’re looking for vendors and crafters for the Celebration of the New Year Craft and Vendor Show on March 1 and 2, 2025.” The post advertised vendor space for sale within the Recreation Centre, ranging from $80 to $100.
“The information is false,” the Municipality emphasized, as no craft show has been booked at the Recreation Centre. “When in doubt, we recommend calling the venue directly to confirm the event and booking information,” the Municipality’s release added.
Further, West Nipissing mentioned, “Residents are advised not to engage with such posts. Do not respond, click on any links, or provide any personal or financial information. It is essential to remain cautious when encountering unsolicited offers or requests, especially from unfamiliar accounts.”
David Briggs is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of BayToday, a publication of Village Media. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.