Smoke on the Water festival officials warn against scammers

BEAUFORT COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) — Multiple reports of scamming have been impacting local businesses and festivals across Eastern North Carolina.

In Beaufort County, the “Smoke on the Water Festival” is coming to Washington on Oct. 18-19. But, as the festival looks to expand with booths and donations, people began to report some suspicious activity with donation links that were commented on the festival’s Facebook page.

Pam Anderson with Washington Noon Rotary clarified with WNCT and on the Facebook page that the festival only accepts donations through its website. They will never ask for donations through Facebook or private messaging.

“It impacts us because we don’t have space for them and some people who want to come in won’t commit because they aren’t sure if it’s the real one,” Anderson said.

Similar reports have been made at other local businesses in Beaufort County and also on New Bern Parks and Recreations’ social media pages. If you come across a posting to donate money claiming to be a ‘registration fee’ that is not directly attached to the website of the organization you are donating to, do not send money.

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