KING'S LYNN BUSINESSES - Protection Against Scams !

24th February 2012

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There are many scams targeted at businesses with new ones appearing constantly. However, almost all scams are variations on just a few types of schemes.

There are lots of steps you can take to protect your business from scams:

Be on your guard.
If it seems ‘too good to be true’ it probably is !
Limit the number of staff allowed to approve purchases. Make sure all other staff know that they can't discuss orders or payments
Never agree to anything in a hurry. Remember it’s possible to make a legally binding contract over the phone but very hard to prove what was said and agreed. Generally, it's one person's word against another's
Do some research on the goods or services being offered ?
Read the small print thoroughly before signing paperwork so you know what you are agreeing to and how much it will cost
Keep copies of all paperwork, proof of posting and all other correspondence
You don’t have to pay unless you agreed to the service and the service has been done properly

Remember, if you are threatened with debt collectors or credit 'black-listing' only a court can decide if you are liable to pay. Disputes with other businesses will not necessarily affect your credit rating.

Report scams to the Trading Standards Business Line 0344 800 8013 or email: trading.standards@norfolk.gov.uk

You can also report scams to Action Fraud, the UK’s National Fraud Reporting Centre via their online fraud reporting tool or call 0300 123 2040

Cut out junk mail and calls by registering with the Mail Preference and Telephone Preference Services. To reduce sale emails and faxes register with the e-Mail and/or Fax Preference Service. These services are FREE, visit www.mpsonline.org.uk

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