WFPS victim of advertising scam targeting area businesses

As of Friday morning, West Fargo Public Schools learned that the district, specifically Sheyenne High School and West Fargo High School, are being associated with a scam targeting area businesses.

Scammer not local

Sports Media Marketing, a company based in Texas, is once again targeting local businesses by soliciting payments in support of local high schools, athletic departments, and teams. By paying a few hundred dollars, the company claims that the donating business will be promoted during sporting events, on t-shirts, and on building signage. This is not a legitimate offer associated with the district or any of our schools, teams, facilities, or staff. The company has extensive complaints on file with the Better Business Bureau, including false claims of identity and not issuing refunds. Sports Media Marketing is also known to illegally replicate the district’s trademarked logos in an effort to legitimize their claims.

Fundraising procedures at WFPS

West Fargo Public Schools requires that any district-affiliated group (teams, classes, PTO/PTA, booster clubs, etc.) complete fundraiser registration paperwork through our Accounting Department and comply with our district’s fundraising policy. Any legitimate fundraiser on behalf of a district entity must first complete the registration process. If, at any time, a local business is approached for a monetary donation, our Accounting Department recommends asking for fundraiser verification in the form of the completed district paperwork or calling the associated school’s Activities Department.

Victims asked to contact police

A similar scam was reported in 2019 and 2018 and West Fargo Public Schools has again notified the West Fargo Police Department of the scam and is currently cooperating with their criminal investigation. If you are a business-owner who has been targeted and contributed money to this scam, please contact the West Fargo Police Department at (701) 433-5500.