Bogus operators targeting exhibitions

Suppliers to the eventing industry have been warned that fraudsters are targeting the industry, stealing thousands of rands worth of equipment from venues. Plasmaview Technologies were recently the victims of fraud as a bogus client ordered thousands of rands worth of audio visual equipment which was then stolen from the venue.

Plasmaview received an email enquiry for the use of three plasma screens and a PA system for an event to be held in Centurion. The 'client' identified himself as working for a private bank and supplied a corresponding email and website address.

The equipment was installed as requested at the venue which was set up with food and beverages. When no one arrived for the event, the equipment was locked away. Later that night, staff claiming to be from the bank collected the equipment.

It was discovered that the email and website addresses were fictitious, the website having been created a month prior in Australia.

Plasmaview, members of EXSA, the watchdog association of the exhibition industry, have warned fellow suppliers to be on the lookout for fraudulent clients. They suggest insisting on upfront payment, confirming event details with another person at the client's company and confirming that the contact person works at the client's company.