Phone, mail, and in-person scams that pressure you into quick decisions

These scams use the same fuel: urgency, intimidation, and confusion. Add spoofed caller ID and AI voices, and the scam can feel personal. The goal is to get your staff to pay, share a code, or approve a "renewal" without thinking.

Fake calls that impersonate the IRS, your bank, "IT support," or a delivery company

What it looks like: A caller claims there's fraud on your account, an IRS problem, a package issue, or a security emergency. They demand immediate action. Often they want remote access to a computer, a one-time passcode, or payment to "fix" something.

Why it works: It hits fear. Nobody wants taxes, banking, or shipping to break.

Red flags

• The caller insists you must stay on the line.
• They demand secrecy or threaten arrest, closure, or penalties.
• They ask for MFA codes, passwords, or remote access right now.
• They refuse call-backs through official numbers.

Prevent it

• Hang up, then call back using the official number from a statement or a real website.
• Set a policy: no one shares codes, passwords, or remote access without a ticket and manager approval.
• Use a script at the front desk: "We don't handle that by phone. Email details to our published address."

Unsolicited services, directory listings, and "you already agreed" sales traps

What it looks like: A "verification" call for your business listing, a vague renewal notice, or a service you "already approved." Some record a staff member saying "yes," then send an invoice.

Why it works: New hires and busy staff try to be helpful. Scammers aim for whoever answers first.

Red flags

• No clear contract, no scope, no written terms.
• They won't email details, or they send a generic invoice only.
• The language sounds like a renewal, but you don't recognize it.
• Pressure to pay to avoid "collections" or "late fees."

Prevent it

• Require written quotes and a signed agreement for any purchase.
• Keep a vendor list, and only allow certain roles to approve vendors.
• Tell staff never to confirm details on a cold call, including address "verification."

Office supply scams that ship or bill for things you never ordered

What it looks like: Toner, cleaning supplies, first-aid kits, or "automatic refills" show up. Next, an invoice follows. If you push back, they threaten collections, claim you "agreed," or cite fake tracking numbers.

Why it works: Supplies feel small, and arguing feels like a time sink.

Red flags

• Invoices without a PO number or known contact person.
• A delivery arrives that nobody ordered, but it looks plausible.
• Aggressive collection threats within days.
• A brand name that sounds familiar, but doesn't match your actual supplier.

Prevent it

• Go PO-only for ordering, even for office supplies.
• Log deliveries (date, carrier, who received it).
• Use a return-to-sender process for unordered goods.
• Dispute charges quickly with the vendor and your payment provider.

Vanity award scams that sell you a trophy instead of real recognition

What it looks like: A letter or email congratulates you for winning "Best of" something. Then comes the catch: pay for a plaque, buy an ad, pay an event fee, or purchase "winner packages."

Why it works: Owners want social proof, and customers like badges.

Red flags

• You never entered, and nobody can explain judging criteria.
• The award requires payment to claim it.
• The organization has no credible history or public list of winners.
• The email is vague about category, location, or selection process.

Prevent it

• Verify the award organization, past winners, and selection method.
• Look for a public nominee list you can cross-check.
• Set a rule: ignore pay-to-win awards and focus on real reviews and proof.

A strong website can help customers tell you're legit, and help you avoid looking like the scams. Tighten up basics like contact info and credibility elements using these website trust signals.