Small Business Owners Warned of Yellow Pages Invoice Scam
Small business owners across the country are being warned to remain vigilant against scams, with one persistent fraud targeting unsuspecting businesses. The Yellow Pages invoice scam has resurfaced, tricking businesses into paying for non-existent advertising spaces that mimic the official Yellow Pages.
A recent incident in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, involved a doctor’s office that received a fraudulent invoice from “Yellow Directory Pages,” a deceptive entity not affiliated with the authentic Yellow Pages. The fake bill demanded $498.89 for a one-year listing and $789.71 for two years, cleverly presented as a bargain.
According to WGAL-TV, the scam typically begins with a phone call claiming to update the business’s Yellow Pages listing, followed by the delivery of a convincing invoice designed to pressure businesses into making unwarranted payments.
To protect themselves from falling victim to this scam, small business owners are advised to request proof of legitimacy before committing to any directory listing. They should also inquire about distribution details, evaluate the necessity of a traditional Yellow Pages listing, educate employees about the scam, and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
By adopting these preventive measures, small business owners can mitigate the risks associated with deceptive practices and safeguard the integrity of their business operations in both digital and traditional advertising realms. Stay alert and stay safe from scams like the Yellow Pages invoice fraud.