BBB: Beware growing number of invoice Scams

JACKSON, Tenn. — The Better Business Bureau is alerting us to another scam on the rise.

Most scams target consumers and shoppers. However, this one is targeting those who own small businesses. Daniel Irwin, with the BBB, tells us what is going on.

“Scammers are using artificial intelligence to create fake invoices, emails, and purchase orders that look completely legitimate. They mimic vendors, partners, and even executives. They trick companies into paying thousands for products and services that don’t exist,” said Irwin.

This is not just a random scam; this is something that is happening locally.

“A West Tennessee business recently paid nearly $12,000 for it services after receiving an invoice that appeared to come from a long time vendor. Only to learnt he real company never sent it,” said Irwin.

It is important to know what to do if you are getting these scams. Irwin gives us some tips on how to hopefully avoid falling victim.

“Always verify payment requests. Confirm invoices and account changes directly with the vendor or contact itself. A quick call to confirm could save a company thousands of dollars,” said Irwin.

Checking the email address of the sender is important. Sometimes, they mimic other businesses and will just change one letter.

If you do receive one of these emails, make sure to report it to the better business bureau’s scam tracker website.

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