Train Your Employees
Your first line of defense should always be a well-trained, informed staff. It’s important to keep your employees up to date on the latest best practices. For example:
- Remind employees never to send passwords or sensitive information by email, even if the message appears to come from a manager or someone they know.
- Talk with your team about how scams work and encourage them to speak up if something feels suspicious.
- Refresh their memory with continued training and guidance, especially as new scams emerge.
Verify Invoices and Payments
Set clear procedures for approving purchases and invoices. Double-check all payment requests. Any invoice that demands payment via wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or gift cards should be immediate red flags.
Look Out for Tech-Related Scams
Scammers can easily spoof phone numbers, so your business can’t always rely on caller ID. Never click on links or open attachments in unexpected emails or text messages. Even if a message seems to come from a familiar contact, be cautious.
Know Who You’re Doing Business With
Before your business conducts any transactions with a new company, do your research. Search the company’s name alongside words like “scam” or “complaint.” Read reviews and ask trusted colleagues for recommendations.
Scammers take advantage of small businesses’ kindness, scale, and vulnerability. Stay vigilant against scammers and protect your small business by implementing these tips.