Just read this
article on a scam that is targeting trucking and logistics companies and
others. Here’s an edited version
for your review. Thoroughly check
and double-check all credit sources lest you too be caught in a rip off.
- By Michael Daigle
- January 7, 2013
“The FBI is currently
investigating the activities of allegedly fraudulent Canadian business entities
that are defrauding U.S. companies. In summary, the scam begins when a Canadian
business (typically located in or around Montreal, Quebec) requests a line of
credit with a U.S. business," the FBI said in a prepared statement.
"The Canadian business will fax or
e-mail references, credit documents, and/or tax documents to prove
authenticity. The Canadian business will then place an order for materials on
the line of credit and arrange for shipping by a third party. The materials are
hauled to Canada, and payment is never made.”
The FBI has identified Canstruct, Inc.,
AYA Distributors, Xpress Auto Parts, Point Tech Performer, Inc. and Emptech as
allegedly fraudulent Canadian businesses as participants in the alleged scheme.
The alleged scheme has targeted lumber
and construction material retailers (lumber, siding, roofing, flooring, etc.),
tire retailers, auto parts retailers, trucking and logistics companies, and
painting supply companies, according to the FBI.
Trade associations across the country
have alerted members to the activities, and a recent story on Watchung-Green
Brook Patch generated
comments from 11 companies from South Carolina, Virginia and Maryland that
said they were also victims of the scam. A LinkedIn discussion group called “Confessions
of a Sales Manager” has generated dozens of similar comments.
Business that suspect they are victims
of this scheme can call the FBI at 877-236-8947 and select option 2. Additional
information can be sent via email to canscam@ic.fbi.gov.
Moving forward,
Jeff Roach
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