7th October 2016 Businesses Urged to Hang Up on FraudstersA local business was recently targeted by fraudsters trying to sell advertising space in a publication which did not exist, claiming it had links to a crime prevention initiative. Whilst the business did not fall for the scam, the OFT wants to make sure others do not make the mistake of handing over money. Publication scams can involve telesales agents calling businesses trying to sell advertising space in bogus publications, often for seemingly good causes. The caller may give the impression that the publisher is partnered with local charities, emergency services or crime prevention/community health initiatives. Sometimes the caller will say that a business has placed an order previously, or even that someone else in the business has agreed to take out the advertising space. The fraudsters may also send the business invoices, whether or not the victim has agreed to take out the advertising space. They may follow up the invoices with threats of legal action. Whilst recognising the fact that legitimate telesales companies do exist, the OFT is offering the following advice to local businesses to reduce the risk of them falling prey to fraudsters:
If a business has lost money through a scam they should contact their local police station or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. Further information on business scams in general is available from the OFT website at http://www.gov.im/oft/Business_Advice/scams.xml or by telephoning 686500.
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