Fabric and craft retailer Joann is sounding the alarm over fraudulent websites masquerading as their brand, an alarming trend that has emerged since the company's recent bankruptcy filing. Following the announcement of store closures, Joann has advised customers to beware of these deceptive sites that aim to exploit the situation for nefarious purposes.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Joann confirmed that it has stopped accepting online orders stating, “Due to the demand, we are NOT accepting orders online.” The company cautioned consumers about these scams, urging them to “shop in-store only.” They emphasized that while browsing is still available on Joann.com, online shopping has been suspended during the ongoing liquidation process. “Beware of fraudulent websites!” the statement reiterated.
In the comment section of their social media announcement, numerous frustrated customers recounted their own experiences with scam sites. One user shared, “I’ve been prey to one of these!! Called itself liquidation joann!! Thanks to my credit card company, it denied the payment.” Another customer reported, “Also was scammed!! CC canceled.” A particularly heartbreaking story came from another user who said, “This happened to my sweet grandma. She saw it and bought a bunch of stuff for us and then it was a scam; I was so sad when I heard they did that to her.”
Joann has taken proactive measures to inform customers about these imitation sites, which have proliferated since the bankruptcy announcement. A spokesperson for the retailer noted, “Unfortunately, the recent news about JOANN's bankruptcy has brought an influx of such sites to fruition.” They urged customers to visit their local JOANN stores for genuine deals and authentic offers during this tumultuous time.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has also stepped in to raise awareness about this growing issue. The organization indicates that scammers are quick to set up fake websites claiming to offer liquidation sales due to Joann’s bankruptcy. They described how consumers are becoming victims of social media advertisements for supposed Joann “going-out-of-business” sales, which direct them to websites that closely imitate the authentic Joann site, touting unmissable discounts.
The BBB warned that anyone wary of fraudulent sites should examine the URL. If it differs from the legitimate Joann website, it is most likely a phishing site attempting to capture personal or financial information. Alarmingly, the BBB scam tracker has already logged more than 200 reports of fake Joann websites.
This warning from Joann follows an unwelcome policy change for customers, who can no longer use gift cards due to the impending store closures. With a sense of urgency, Joann is trying to salvage its remaining customer base amidst widespread discontent.
Joann's financial woes began when it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March 2024. Initially, the company aimed to keep its stores operational by privatizing them. However, a second bankruptcy filing in January 2025 prompted the decision to wind down operations entirely, leading to recent announcements of store closures.
In a statement addressing the situation, Joann expressed commitment to managing a principled wind-down of its operations. The company's leadership remarked, “JOANN leadership, our Board, advisors, and legal partners made every possible effort to pursue a more favorable outcome that would keep the company in business. We are committed to working constructively with the winning bidder to ensure an orderly wind-down of operations that minimizes the impact on all our stakeholders.”
The unfolding landscape for Joann serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of financial instability and the opportunistic behavior that can follow. As customers navigate the turmoil surrounding their favorite craft retailer, they are left grappling not only with the loss of their go-to store but also with the treachery of scams preying on vulnerable shoppers.
As the liquidation sales progress in the coming months, customers are advised to remain vigilant. Shoppers should ensure their transactions are made safely and securely, particularly during a time when vulnerability is at its peak. With numerous warnings issued and ongoing measures to protect consumers, Joann continues to face the dual challenge of maintaining customer loyalty while ensuring safety against fraudulent actors seeking to exploit the crisis.
As tensions rise, Joann's commitment to warning its customers remains steadfast. The retailer’s message is clear: prioritize safety, shop in stores, and exercise caution in the face of deception so rampant in the wake of their recent hardships.
