A scammer is swindling small businesses by “selling” fake advertising sponsorships with local sporting clubs.
Consumer Affairs Victoria has been told a Balwyn business received a cold call from a person offering advertising with North Balwyn Bowls Club.
After paying by credit card, the victim then called the club and was informed it had no affiliation with the “company” selling the sponsorships.
A spokesman for Consumer Affairs Victoria said victims usually lost between $500 and $1000 in a scam of this nature.
Consumer Affairs Victoria director Claire Noone said businesses should be wary of potential scams.
“Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in targeting small business as well as individuals,” Dr Noone said.
“Scams attacking small businesses can come in various forms, from bills for advertising or directory listings that your business never ordered, to ‘tax-free’ investment scam offers.”
Anyone who believes they have been targeted by a similar scam should contact Consumer Affairs Victoria.
