Protect your business |
Don´t be a scam victim
- If an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is.
- Be alert to phone, email or mail solicitations, especially when they are convincing or use high-pressure tactics.
- Never send money, or give credit card or online account details, to anyone you don´t know and trust.
- Keep your tax invoices and receipts, and check your bank account and credit card statements. If you see a transaction you cannot explain, report it to your bank.
- Make time to check your invoices thoroughly and make payments on a regular basis, rather than rush a payment through.
- Create clear policies about who is authorised to pay bills, order goods and services, and check and authorise payments.
- Keep your bank cards safe. Make sure only a couple of employees have access to business accounts.
- Do not sign anything until you have read and understand all the terms and conditions. For major purchases, take the contract with you overnight and consider asking your lawyer to check it.
- Always get independent advice if an offer involves a significant amount of money or time.
Look out for fraud
Be wary when:
- sellers demand quick payment
- the caller refuses to send you information, or delays doing so
- the caller tells you that someone else in your office approved a payment
- you cannot recall dealing with the caller before, yet they insist you have.
As a businesses operator, it can be easy to find yourself paying for small items like stationary or advertising space in publications that don´t exist.
Many of these scams come via fax. The Australian Communications and Media Authority have expanded the ´do not call´ register to fax numbers. For more information on how to register your fax number, visit the ACMA website.
For more information on fax back scams, false billing scams and invoice fraud, visit the Scamwatch website.
Online security
Ensure your business and customer details are safe online by using the correct IT security support for your business. The Stay Smart Online website provides information on how to make your workplace secure. The correct security software will help protect your private information and prevent fraud.
You can keep yourself informed about the latest cyber security risks by subscribing to Stay Smart Online´s alert service.
Report a scam
If you believe have been scammed or spotted a scam, please report it to us.
For more information on protecting your business from scams, visit the ACCC´s Scamwatch website.
Last reviewed 29/11/2011 |
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