A dodgy online merchandise site is trying to rip off Tasmania Devils AFL fans
We name the fake online merchandise store selling bogus Tasmania Devils gear, from jumpers and hoodies to coffee cups. What to look out for >>
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A tsunami of support continues to flood in for the Tasmania Devils with memberships hitting a staggering 150,000 on Friday and the AFL now forced to fend off dodgy merchandise websites trying to cash in on the club’s popularity.
Four days after their gala launch on Monday, the Devils made it perfectly clear – no official merchandise will be available sale for another few weeks.
That has not stopped fake vendors from trying to defraud Devils fans of their dollars.
A site called AntSport is offering everything from Tasmania Devils-branded puffer jackets, hoodies, polo shirts, jackets, sleeveless jackets, runners, playing jumpers, coffee cups to caps.
Close inspection of the images reveals they are digital creations, not real items.
The message from the club was to avoid any website masquerading as a Tasmania Devils merchandise store.
In a state issued by Tasmania Football Club Executive Director Kath McCann, she said Devils merchandise was still in the works.
“Soon we will have official club merchandise on sale, all of which will be available to founding members only,” Ms McCann said.
“We are so looking forward to building our club with you all.”
A malware investigation website warns of “antsport”:
“Antsport.store is a fraudulent online store that you should avoid at all costs. This scam website claims to sell various products at very low prices, but will either send you counterfeit or inferior goods, or nothing at all.
“On top of selling sham goods or no goods at all, Antsport.store also unscrupulously collects customers’ personal and financial data during checkout, including full names, home addresses, phone numbers, credit card details, and more. This information is likely used or sold for nefarious purposes like identity theft, credit card fraud, or sharing on dark web marketplaces.”
Devils supporters who signed on as foundation members will receive club stickers – one sticker for $10 members and four stickers for $15 members.
The strong membership uptake has left the club scrambling to meet demand.
“We are currently busily printing stickers and stuffing member envelopes to get your packs delivered to those who have signed up,” Ms McCann said.
“150,000 founding members tells us how broad the support is for the Tasmania Devils.
“Our founding member community is the backbone of our club and shared dream.
“The widespread support for our club, and general buzz around Tasmanian football since Monday’s launch, has been amazing.”
For those who want to become part of the team, Ms McCann said should sign up as a founding member at tasmaniafc.com.
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