Scammers have been actively creating fraudulent advertisements on Facebook and Pinterest that impersonate the well-known fabric and craft retailer Joann Fabrics. These deceptive ads are designed to trick users into clicking malicious links, providing personal information, or making payments for products that will never be delivered.
How the Scam Works
The fraudulent ads typically appear as sponsored posts offering unbelievable deals — up to 90 percent off storewide, free fabric samples, or exclusive clearance events. When users click on these ads, they are redirected to phishing websites that closely mimic the legitimate Joann Fabrics online store. These sites are designed to steal credit card details, home addresses, and other sensitive information.
Some scammers also create fake social media pages using the official Joann Fabrics logo and branding to appear trustworthy. These pages may engage with customers and answer questions, making them seem legitimate at first glance. Unsuspecting shoppers may place orders and never receive their purchases, while their payment details are compromised.
Red Flags to Watch For
- URLs that do not match the official joann.com domain
- Offers that seem too good to be true, such as extreme discounts
- Poor grammar, spelling errors, or unprofessional design in ads
- Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
- Recently created social media pages with few followers and no verified badge
- Ads that pressure you to act quickly due to limited stock
How to Protect Yourself
- Always verify promotional offers by visiting the official Joann Fabrics website directly
- Hover over links before clicking to check the actual destination URL
- Use credit cards or payment services with fraud protection
- Enable two-factor authentication on your social media accounts
- Report suspicious ads to Facebook and Pinterest
What to Do If You Encountered a Scam
If you believe you have shared personal information with a fraudulent Joann Fabrics ad, contact your bank or credit card provider immediately. Change passwords for any accounts that may have been compromised, and report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission or your local consumer protection agency. Staying vigilant when shopping online is essential to protecting your personal and financial data.
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