Monday, March 04, 2019

If you're a small business owner, than you're likely doing all you can to keep your assets safe and sound. But according to the Better Business Bureau, scam activity directed at small businesses is growing at a national cost of $7 billion annually.

"If you suspect something isn't right, trust your gut and do not comply," says Terry Roberds, director of corporate security at Ameren. "Scammers prey on ignorance. By educating our residential and business customers about common scams, we can turn the tide on these thieves, prevent monetary losses and strengthen the communities we serve."

Below are Roberds' top three tips for keeping your biz safe:

Never give your credit card, debit card, Social Security, ATM, checking, savings or account numbers to anyone who calls, sends an email, or comes to your home requesting this information without your initial reach out.

Don't trust anyone asking for immediate payment. If a service provider is asking for immediate payment before a job is complete, end the conversation.

Never purchase a prepaid card to avoid service disconnection or shut off. Legitimate utility companies do not specify how customers should make a bill payment and always offer a variety of ways to pay a bill: online, by phone, electronic check, mail or at pay in person locations.

Source: Ameren.com/stop-scams

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