Scam Alert: Fake Farm Show Targets Pennsylvania Businesses
Pennsylvania officials have issued a warning to businesses in the state about an ongoing scam that involves fraudulent solicitation of reservations and payments for a non-existent farm show. Scammers are targeting unsuspecting businesses by promoting the Winter Farm Expo at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center from January 6-7. They are asking for payments to reserve vendor spaces, even though there is no event scheduled for those dates.
Attorney General Michelle Henry and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding are urging businesses to be cautious and do their research before signing any paperwork or sending payments. They emphasize the importance of not falling victim to such scams and tarnishing the reputation of established events like the Pennsylvania Farm Show.
If you believe you have been targeted by this scam, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection encourages you to file a complaint online or by calling 1-800-441-2555. This will help authorities investigate the matter and protect other businesses from potentially falling prey to the same scam.
In the meantime, the real 2024 Pennsylvania Farm Show is scheduled to take place from January 6-13 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg. This event, which has been running for 108 years, is the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the country. It serves as a platform for connecting communities and showcasing the contributions of the agricultural industry to Pennsylvania’s economy, which amounts to $132.5 billion annually.
To reserve booth space for the genuine Pennsylvania Farm Show, interested parties can visit farmshow.pa.gov for more information. It is essential to verify the legitimacy of any event and ensure the reliability of the organizers before making any payments or commitments.
The emergence of scams like this highlights the need for businesses and consumers to remain vigilant in protecting themselves against fraud. By reporting suspicious activities and doing thorough research, individuals can avoid falling victim to these deceptive schemes. Pennsylvania officials are committed to combating such scams and urge the public to be cautious and skeptical when engaging in financial transactions or making reservations for events.
