BBB has recently been informed that a scam artist is operating in Greater Victoria posing as an employee of a legitimate business.
Saanich Police recently release the following News Release pertaining to such a scam:
(Saanich Police) “A man calling himself John is actively scamming people throughout Greater Victoria. One group that he seems to be targeting is seniors living in apartment buildings. His scam is to pose as a window washer, working for a local company. He gains access to the building by saying that he has a job there and that his truck has broken down nearby. He asks for money to get his vehicle fixed. Most times he asks for $20-$40 but he has been known to ask for upwards of $200.
The latest incident happened over the Thanksgiving long weekend in the 500 block of Marsett Place when the man said he was in distress because his vehicle had broken down. He provided his driver's license to the victim, possibly to indicate some legitimacy to his claim. The victim then handed over $40.
An incident five days earlier, on October 5th, had the man enter a business in the 4000 block of Quadra St and ask for over $80 to fix his vehicle. The man was very forceful and refused to leave until staff called police. Before leaving though the man was handed over some money. He was gone prior to police arriving.
Police are actively investigating this man and ask for anyone with information to contact them at 250-475-4321 or Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).” How Can You Protect Your Businesses Good Name?
It is nearly impossible to stop scam artists from using your business’ good name in a fraud, but there are a few small things you can do to reduce the likelihood that your customers will be taken advantage of and that your business’ reputation will be tarnished by unscrupulous fraudsters.
Contact the Police. If you happen to hear of any situations in which your company name is being used in a scam, be sure to immediately contact your local police to report and discuss the matter.
Be Transparent. While it might seem embarrassing to have your company name being associated with a scam, it is more important that people are informed about how your company is negatively being used and portrayed. Alert your customers and your community if a scam artist is falsely portraying your business. Issue a News Release and contact your local media asking for their assistance in getting the message out and stopping the fraudster. Inform the BBB so we can assist you in issuing a Scam Alert and spreading the message.
Put security measures in place and educate your customers. By implementing simple security measures such as business I.D. cards and numbers for employees, putting logos on all your vehicles or assigning customer account numbers, you can assist your customers in recognizing and identifying when they are dealing with a legitimate employee of your business. Be sure to inform and educate your current and potential customers on an ongoing basis via your regular promotions and interactions with them, as to how they can identify when they are doing business with a legitimate employee.