Better Business Bureau Addresses Red Flags of Identity Theft

The Better Business Bureau (BBB; bbb.org) knows that business ID theft is real, and they have addressed a couple red flags so owners can ensure they are protecting their company. Running a business has so many moving components; it can be hard to keep track of everything. That is especially true in light of all that small businesses are having to do to stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although it may not be top of mind, you want to be sure you are doing all you can to protect your business’s reputation and take steps to prevent business identity theft.

Small- and medium-size businesses are also at risk, and not just big-name businesses. Criminals can steal a business’s identity by gaining access to financial or other sensitive information. They also have a variety of ways in, including hacking, malware, phishing emails, and swiping credit card information.

Businesses should be wary of these red flags of identity theft:

• You receive a request to verify orders you didn’t place.
• You receive phone calls from someone trying to verify an address for your business that is not associated with your company or that you cannot confirm.
• You receive invoices for storage, shipping, or other services that you did not purchase.
• You are a victim of a phishing attempt or a business email compromise (BEC) scam.

For tips to protect your business from identity theft and more information to help you through the COVID-19 pandemic, turn to the Better Business Bureau by going online to bbb.org/smallbusiness.