Just a word of caution for those of us operating any form of online business. The old Nigerian 419 scammers are now targetting small businesses.
We were contacted to give a quote for a translation and agreed £300 ($500). Lo and behold, we had an email from the "client" apologising because their "accountant" had inadvertantly sent us 4 American Express Travellers cheques in our name, each of $500.
Of course, as these are made out to us, the way to rectify the situation is to deposit the $2000 into our account and wire back the excess $1500 .... I should coco !!!!
The "cheques" are, to be fair, excellent forgeries, but my background and cynical nature made me examine them carefully. The watermark is actually printed on as opposed to embossed, but looks good on quick inspection!
Anyhoooo, I contacted American Expree Fraud Dept and they confirmed that the serial numbers aren't coming up with an authorisation code at their end ( so don't exist).
According to the Agent I spoke to these scammers are increasingly turning to small online business operators ..... so be aware.
I'd quite like to frame these -- but as they are counterfeit instruments I might get in trouble ... so they are off to the nick in the morning !
My opinions are merely that .. opinions based on experience. Always seek professional advice.
IVA Completed 23rd July 2013 .... C.C. 10th January 2014
