Bauernfeind: Watch out for ‘toner pirates’
A local company is warning you to be on the lookout for “toner pirates.” This scam has targeted organizations that use copiers and printers for years, but Bauernfeind Business Technologies (BBT) of Marshfield has recently learned the scammers are now targeting those using postage meters, as well.
There are several variations of this scheme. Sometimes, the crooks will call an unsuspecting office person claiming to be the victim’s print services provider – they might even know the name of the legitimate provider and the type of copier/ printer or postage machine they’re using. They try to get permission to send toner or ink to the customer. Those supplies will be sent with payment expected upon delivery.
Sometimes, they won’t even call; they’ll just brazenly send out the toner or ink and demand payment. Their invoices look legitimate and sometimes offer special pricing for quick, electronic payment.
If you’re a customer of BBT or another reputable office technology provider, don’t fall for this scheme. If your devices are under an all-inclusive service contract, you shouldn’t have to pay for supplies.
“We will never call you demanding you purchase ink or toner. If you receive an invoice from an unknown company for toner or ink, assume it is a scam and don’t pay,” wrote Paul Knoff of BBT in a press release.
If you receive a cash on delivery shipment of supplies, simply refuse the shipment.
Here are some tips to help identify a scam: 1.The company name isn’t familiar. 2.The offer seems too good to be true. 3.The caller can’t identify your machine’s make, model or BBT-issued tag number.
4.The company refuses to provide contact information.
5.The caller seems pushy, warning that you have to act fast for the best deal.
6.The caller seems evasive when asked simple questions.
7.The caller refuses to provide references or an official quote.
If you ever have questions concerning a shipment of ink or toner, don’t hesitate to call your office supplies provider, which can work with you to ensure you aren’t the victim of toner pirates.
