Sligo businesses have been advised to beware of a scam that cons firms into buying advertising space in a trade fair guide.
The Sligo European Information Centre (EIC) issued the warning regarding the scam involving an Austrian company that tricks businesses into buying thousands of euro worth of advertising space.
The EIC has warned businesses not to sign and return any material from this company called Construct Data Verlag.
Under the scam, businesses receive a mailshot offering them advertising space in the trade fair directory and giving them the impression that entries are free.
However, the small print means that firms who sign and return the enclosed form – even if simply amending or adding to the details provided – are committed to paying almost €1,000 a year for three years for entries into the directory.
A German court ruled in June 2004 that Construct Data Verlag contravened the German Criminal Code, and a similar ruling given by an Austrian court in January of this year found the Construct Data mailing to breach the Austrian Advertising Code.
The Euro Info Centre Manager Laura Caslin said: "This is a scam where people sign a contract thinking they are getting free advertising.”