St. Albert Farmers’ Market warns of new scam targeting vendors

St. Albert Farmers’ Market is warning the public about a new scam. The chamber of commerce says it is targeting vendors, asking all those who sell at the market to be vigilant and not click on any suspicious links.

“There is a fradualent email impersonating the farmers’ market and by extension the St. Albert District and Chamber of Commerce,” said Shelly Nichol, the executive director of the St. Albert District and Chamber of Commerce.

The email is supposedly coming from Jane Illot, the chamber’s farmers market manager, asking vendors to complete applications for the 2026 farmers’ indoor market happening between April 16 and 19.

“I felt violated. I mean it’s my name and it’s my poistion and I like to keep a good reputation expecially with the markets and the chamber. What can we do about it. I’m just getting the word out there that it’s not me,” Illot explained.

Nichol said,” It’s very sophisticated and all of their information is correct. I can see why people have been falling for it.”

While the email appears to be legitimate, the chamber says it’s coming from an “@gmail.com”, which they will never use. Emails from the chamber will come from “@stalbertchamber.com”.

“They’re signing their emails off warm regards, which I would never use. I would always say chat soon or looking forward to having you in the market. Be vigilant. Slow down. Look at the email. Make sure they’re the correct emails,” said Illot.

Illot adding the chamber does contact vendors via email to complete applications.

“I don’t usually send out email to soliciting vendors. We usually have quite an extensive list,” Illot explained.

There’s also another scam email inviting vendors to register for the outdoor market happening on June 5th.

“The chamber is trying incredibly hard to stop this. If any vendor have any questions, please call us,” said Nichol.

St. Albert RCMP is now investigating.