Warning: This paraphrased text suggests that an online sale at Joann Fabric and Crafts might be fraudulent. Approach such offers with caution.
Warning: Joann Fabric and Crafts Online Sale Scams
There's a sneaky new scam making the rounds, and it revolves around the recent bankruptcy filing of Joann Fabric and Crafts. Scam artists are exploiting our love for a good deal, by advertising fake online clearance sales as if they represent the beloved craft store.
As a result of the bankruptcy filing, Joann announced plans to close its retail locations, starting with going-out-of-business sales. However, on March 5, 2025, the company halted online purchases on its website. Nonetheless, con artists have seized the opportunity to promote these online clearance sales through ads on social media platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, and Nextdoor.
How the Scam Works
When you click on these misleading ads, you'll be redirected to fake sale websites that offer supposedly deep discounts (up to 80-90% off) on Joann's products. Once you make a purchase, the payment goes directly into the scammers' pockets, leaving you empty-handed and facing unknown charges on your credit card.
Avoiding Online Sale Scams
Whether it's Joann's sale or another disruptive (yet enticing) sale, exercise caution before diving in. Scammers often prey on emotions based on urgency, so resist the urge to whip out your credit card for time-limited deals that seem too good to be true. Remember, if it looks suspicious, it probably is.
Before committing to an online purchase, make sure you're on the legitimate company's website by typing in the URL rather than clicking taken links. Joann has even posted a notice on their website about these fraudulent online sales, warning consumers to be wary of such scams. In this case, they clarify that "there are no other authorized Joann shopping sites."
In the unfortunate event that you are targeted by this or any other scam, pay with a credit card, as they provide more substantial consumer protection than debit cards, enabling you to dispute charges in case of fraudulent activity. Also, keep your purchase records, as they serve as crucial evidence in disputing any questionable transactions.
Stay vigilant and protect yourself from these crafty scammers by following these simple guidelines to identify and avoid Joann Fabric and Crafts online sale scams. For more information, check out this useful resource on how to avoid similar scams: scam avoidance resources.
- Be aware that some fraudulent websites are advertising false Joann Fabric and Crafts online clearance sales, which may result in the loss of your money with no products delivered.
- Even though Joann announced plans for going-out-of-business sales in their retail locations, they halted online purchases on March 5, 2025.
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises consumers to be cautious of any unexpected financial dealing, especially during business disruptions, to avoid falling victim to online sale scams like the one targeting Joann Fabric and Crafts.
- To minimize the risk of being scammed, always ensure you are on the legitimate company's website before making an online purchase, and pay with credit cards to protect your finances in case of fraudulent activity.
