06/03/2026
This Is genuine as I have just been through it lucky enough I am usually good at spotting scams.
⚠️ ATTENTION LOCAL CREATIVES & SMALL BUSINESSES ⚠️
I wanted to share a quick heads-up about a sophisticated email scam currently targeting local service providers. I almost got caught up in it myself this week for a fake event booking, and I want to make sure none of my fellow business owners get taken advantage of.
Here is how the scam plays out:
The Request: You receive a very polite, well-written inquiry for a milestone event (like a school reunion or milestone anniversary) at a legitimate local venue.
The Red Flag: They ask for a contract quickly and claim they are "happy with the rates" before you have even sent them an official quote.
The Trap: When it comes to payment, they insist they cannot use digital platforms or credit cards. Instead, they strongly push to pay by check, offering to send a "check image for mobile deposit" or mail a physical check.
How the scam works:
If you accept the check image and deposit it via your mobile banking app, the funds might appear in your account the next day. The scammers will then "accidentally" overpay you, or ask you to pay a portion of the funds to a third-party vendor (like a coordinator or caterer) via e-transfer. A few days later, the bank realizes the check is fraudulent. The full amount is clawed back from your account, leaving you personally liable for any money you transferred out.
A few things that saved me:
Sticking to my systems: I process everything through secure digital booking links. The moment a client pushes hard to bypass standard payment methods, red flags should go up.
Trusting my gut: If an inquiry feels generic or avoids using your online booking system, take a step back.
Please protect your hard-earned business and your bank accounts. If you get a request that matches this script, insist on secure digital payment or e-transfer. If they refuse, block the sender and move on!
Stay safe out there!
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