Howler cashless system releases statement about imposters
There are rats using the Howler cashless system without consent and last week they released a statement to their database to warn customers.
Systems like Howler designed to create a safer event experience, they say, but as with most things there are people trying to use it for their own advantage, ripping the net of safety.
It recently came to Howler’s attention that a client of theirs decided to use leftover Howler bands for their own in-house ‘cashless’ system- without consent.
Besides what appears to be theft of intellectual property, the most concerning aspect for the company is customers mistaking a non-Howler-supported event for a Howler supported event.
The implications include:
- Problematic loading, usage, or cash-out;
- Inadequate service levels on the ground;
- Insufficient safety and security protocols for customers’ money; and
- Unclear, unfair or even illegal refund policies.
Protect yourself, don’t wreck yourself
Howler says they are taking every precaution to prevent third parties from misusing leftover Howler bands, but here are seven ways to tell whether it’s a true Howler system:
- Is the device accompanied by a Howler-branded lanyard? (It should be.)
- Does the device show you your balance? (If not, it’s not Howler.)
- Are there physical tokens that can’t be cashed out? If so, it’s not Howler, because we use ‘digital credits’ only; never tokens.)
- Is the cashless system “not working” or “offline”? (Then it’s not Howler.)
- Is the Top-Up Station clearly Howler-branded? (No? Not Howler.)
- Is there a Howler-branded team on the ground at the event, to assist you? (No dedicated Howler team; no Howler.)
- Can you cash out post-event, online or both? (With Howler, there will always be an option and always online)
It may look like a Howler cashless system, operate like a Howler, and sometime even say ’Howler’, but if the event branding isn’t 100% Howler, it may not be trustworthy, and your money may not be safe.
To report any suspicious behaviour, email Howler cashless system here.
