Scam artists in the Lansing, Mich. area are posing as health inspectors and targeting small restaurants.
Victims say they received a phone call at their restaurant from a supposed health inspector to schedule a time for an inspection. Once there, the scammer asks for banking information, credit cards and Social Security numbers. The “inspector” threatens to fine the restaurant if the owner doesn’t comply and supply the information.
Officials in the Lansing area say the restaurants targeted have all been Mexican and Asian, and they don’t have a definite number on how many have fallen victim so far.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture advises restaurant owners to always ask for identification from anyone claiming to be a food inspector, and remind them that local and state inspectors would never ask for sensitive information, and they usually show up unannounced.
Department officials also said they felt Asian and Mexican restaurants were targeted because the language barrier would likely make it more difficult for restaurant owners to resist the request of the phony inspectors. It’s highly likely the information stolen will be used for identity theft.
As a business owner, you should know how to protect your business from identity theft. Never give personal or business information to solicitors, unless you are the one that initiated the contact.
If you receive suspicious e-mails or links within e-mails, don’t click on them. These, as well as many pop-up ads, can be full of computer viruses designed to steal user names and passwords.
Thieves often steal information by digging in the trash. Be sure to shred your personal information before you throw it away. This applies also to the credit card receipts and customer information you may have on hand.
Small business owners are particularly vulnerable to identity theft, since they very often don’t have the resources that larger companies do. But by being vigilant and paying attention to details, you can keep your small business safe from would-be thieves.
