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# Warning over fake Christmas fair scam targeting Ipswich traders
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/warning-over-fake-christmas-fair-scam-targeting-ipswich-traders/
- Published: 2024-11-22T08:38:33.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:29:41.000Z
- Description: Small businesses in Ipswich are being warned about fake Christmas craft fair advertisements appearing on Facebook community groups, designed to scam traders out of pitch fees.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Scams & Consumer Safety, #article, Suffolk Trading Standards, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**The big picture:** Fraudsters are creating fictitious Christmas market events and demanding payment for stall spaces that don't exist, targeting local crafters and small business owners through social media.

**Why it matters:** Small businesses could lose significant sums of money during the crucial pre-Christmas trading period through these scams, which are designed to look like legitimate craft fair advertisements.

![Warning issued by Suffolk Trading Standards](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1731871254-fake-craft-fayre-warning-sts.png)

Warning issued by Suffolk Trading Standards (Suffolk Trading Standards)

**Key warning signs:**

- Venues are not tagged or linked in posts
- Organisers request private messages rather than public communication
- Payment is requested via PayPal's "friends and family" option
- No corresponding event appears on the venue's official page

**How to protect yourself:**

- Contact venues directly to verify events
- Check organiser profiles and history
- Be wary of payment requests through informal channels
- Report suspicious posts to Facebook group administrators

**Between the lines:** The scam exploits the increasing popularity of Christmas markets and craft fairs, taking advantage of traders looking to secure prime selling opportunities during the festive season.

**What they're saying:** "Please do your homework before booking into any events and make sure the person advertising such events is a genuine organiser," warns Suffolk Trading Standards.

**The bottom line:** Small businesses are urged to remain vigilant and verify all event details directly with venues before making any payments for Christmas market stalls.

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