The Forks in Winnipeg has issued a warning about scam emails circulating that target farmers' market vendors. The fraudulent messages appear to be from The Forks and request personal information, including banking details. Officials emphasize that these emails are not legitimate and urge recipients not to respond or click any links.
How the Scam Works
The scam emails are designed to look official, using The Forks branding and language related to the farmers' market. They ask vendors to update their payment information or provide other sensitive data. The Forks has stated that they never request such information via email.
What to Do If You Receive One
If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from The Forks, do not reply, click links, or download attachments. Instead, forward the email to The Forks' official contact or report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. The Forks is working with cybersecurity experts to address the issue.
Protecting Yourself
Vendors and customers should be cautious with unsolicited emails. Always verify the sender's address and look for red flags like spelling errors or urgent requests. The Forks recommends using secure payment methods and contacting them directly if unsure.
This incident follows a broader trend of phishing attacks targeting small businesses and market vendors across Canada. Authorities advise staying informed and reporting any suspicious activity.
