It’s an unfortunate fact of life that we have to be on alert for malicious threats all of the time. One security issue that needs to be discussed more, especially for smaller businesses, is scammers.
One scam that has affected several businesses relates to toner and other office supplies. While this scam isn’t new, it’s gotten bigger in recent years. Sometimes called the “toner phoner scam,” this threat can have a big impact on your business if you fall for it.
What to Watch for
These scams are done by phone, and businesses receive a call about office supplies like toner. Callers offer big discounts and pressure companies to place an order immediately over the phone. Sometimes order forms are faxed or emailed, and usually, they look legitimate. Sometimes scammers pretend to be a supplier you already use and ask you to place an immediate order or pay on a past due invoice
Here are some red flags:
- Unsolicited calls offering office supplies
- Callers claiming to be with a supplier you use
- An offer of free or massively discounted products
- A supplier requesting immediate payment for unpaid invoices
How to Avoid Being Scammed
In any of those cases or a range of others that just don’t feel right, the best thing to do is wait to do anything. Hang up and do some investigating on your own – are they really your supplier? Are they a legitimate, local business? It’s easy to sniff out scams if you take a little time to check before you commit.
It’s also smart to keep good records of who you use and pay invoices immediately. That way no one will be tricked into sharing financial information with a scammer. Never, ever give information over the phone to a caller. If they are a real business, they will be fine with you calling them back.
The easiest way to avoid scammers? Find a reputable supplier and stick with them!
To find out more about security threats or to partner up with us for the best in supplies, contact Bay Copy today!