The Cranbrook Public Library property was listed as a location for a scam looking to get money out of vendors.
Cranbrook Public Library Deputy Director Mike Selby says the attempted fraud was listing a fake festival to bilk money out of victims.
“Someone had posted, saying they’re looking for vendors, crafters and food trucks for a Kids & Fun Festival on June 29, and fees were $100 or $110,” said Selby.
“It didn’t list the Library, but it gave the address as its location. It wasn’t us – we don’t hold festivals and we don’t charge money for things.”
Selby said Library staff became aware of the scam when someone called them to ask about the festival.
“Someone saw that it was posted on social media, and they just called us. They assumed we weren’t doing this because it’s not something a library would do,” said Selby.
“We were able to say that it was not us and that it was a scam, and it was taken down.”
Coincidentally, the Cranbrook Public Library and the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL) are partnering to run a scam safety workshop later this month.
“It’s a presentation on how to avoid falling for online fraud and scams such as this one,” said Selby.
“You can call or text them at 250-420-7596. It’s free, but you can register there.”
The workshop will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, May 23 at the CBAL Cranbrook office (19a 9th Avenue South).
You can find out more about the workshop here.
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