Reddit roundup: how backers spotted the Kobe Red jerky campaign
Scam & Risk Alerts · PledgeRadar Editorial ·
In 2013, Kickstarter suspended funding for Kobe Red, a campaign that had raised a large sum for "Kobe beef" jerky, after backers and documentary makers raised questions. This thread captured the moment the suspension happened.
It remains a well-known example of backers catching a problem before the money was collected.
What Reddit users said
Explains one of the first red flags: a backer asked for proof of Kobe beef, which had only recently become legal to import into the US in small quantities, while the campaign would have needed thousands of pounds.
Original commentThe backer who first raised questions says they had nearly given up after reporting it weeks earlier, and credits the others who kept pushing.
Original commentAsked at a glance where that much Kobe beef could come from, and concluded it probably wasn't Kobe at all.
Original commentGot an email saying their pledge had been refunded and only understood why from this thread.
Original commentA backer who was looking forward to the jerky until the suspension notice arrived, and was glad to find an explanation.
Original commentCongratulated the people who raised the alarm and hoped the case would feature in their crowdfunding documentary.
Original commentSource: Likely MAJOR Kickstarter FRAUD Uncovered: Kobe Red (r/kickstarter)
Replies in this roundup summarize public comments posted on Reddit and are credited to their original authors, with links to the source. They are third-party opinions, not statements by PledgeRadar or its members. PledgeRadar does not verify these claims and accepts no legal responsibility for the content of community discussions.