Tackle firms are being warned to be on their guard against a new scam emanating from Dubai.
The fraud, aimed at tackle firms, allows criminals to access bank accounts and withdraw funds under the guise of paying for gear.
Mark Kitson, boss of Sovereign Superbaits called Tackle and Guns and warned the trade to be on the lookout for enquiries that seem legitimate but could be the way in that a criminal needs to access funds.
“I have had several emails from what appear to be genuine buyers in Dubai asking for prices for large shipments of tackle,” said Mark. “The first one almost caught me out. Everything seemed to check out. I provided a quote and discussed options, via email, with what appeared to be a genuine trade contact. The crux came when the ‘buyer’ asked for my bank details in order to pay up front. Fortunately, having not dealt with the buyer before, I gave them details of a dormant account without an overdraft facility and with just a couple of pounds in it. Later my bank informed me that rather than pay in funds, someone had tried to withdraw several thousands.”
Mark immediately contacted the police but was informed that as no money had actually been taken, they couldn’t investigate.
“The only reason no money went missing is that the account was empty,” said Mark. “Imagine if the account had had a large overdraft facility. All I’d provided the buyer with was the account number, IBAN and sort code yet using that, they appear to have been able to try and withdraw thousands.”
“Much of the tackle trade is in a vulnerable place right now. A decent sized export order could be just what’s needed but the truth is if a buyer looks too good to be true, they almost certainly are.” concluded Mark.
TF_geepster.
