Fake Influencer & Customs Trap
Medium RiskOverview
Small Irish business owners are contacted by fake influencers, photographers, or distributors who request free products for "promotion" or "photo shoots". The scammer either disappears after receiving goods, or traps victims with fake customs fees when sending products overseas.
Typical Targets
- •Small business owners, especially handmade/artisan products
- •New businesses eager for exposure
- •Food, beauty, and lifestyle brands
- •Anyone who doesn't verify influencer credentials
Why This Scam Works
- •Influencer marketing is valuable and legitimate businesses use it
- •Scammers have convincing fake portfolios
- •Desire for exposure overrides caution
- •Small businesses may not verify properly
- •Fake customs demands seem plausible for international shipping
Real Example
“A Kerry jewellery maker was contacted by a "fashion photographer" claiming to work with Vogue. They requested €400 worth of pieces for a "Paris photo shoot". After shipping, she received an email demanding €150 for "customs clearance" before delivery. Both the photographer and customs email were fake.”
* Details changed to protect privacy. Based on reported cases.
How to Avoid This Scam
- Verify influencer profiles – check follower engagement, not just numbers
- Research photographers independently
- Legitimate influencers don't demand expensive products upfront
- Offer discount codes instead of free products
- Check business registration numbers and addresses
- Be suspicious of international requests for free products
- Never pay "customs fees" requested by the recipient
If You've Been Caught Out
Don't panic – take these steps immediately:
- 1Stop all communication and don't pay any fees
- 2Report to An Garda Síochána
- 3Report fake profiles to Instagram/TikTok
- 4Share the experience in business owner groups to warn others
- 5Write off the products as a loss – don't throw good money after bad
- 6Review your verification processes for future collaborations
* This information is for guidance only. Always seek professional advice for your specific situation.
Who to Contact for Help
An Garda Síochána
Local station
Report if significant loss
CCPC
01 402 5555
Business consumer advice
Local Enterprise Office
localenterprise.ie
Business support
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