Fraud artists are not always shaded in dark alleys. They can be new romantic partners, friendly neighbors, generous new business contacts or charismatic staff. Johnathan Walton, a suspicious TV producer, said: “Conn Artist doesn’t surpass you. They surpass you.”
This week Small business radio showI interviewed former reporter and producer Walton. Shark tankA person who was sacrificed to him at a sophisticated fraud of $ 100,000. He wrote about this AnatomyWe shared our strong insights to all small business owners.
Non -profit of a scammer: How to protect business from a scammer
Walton’s story is Morning Call. Especially when emotions are related, even the most sophisticated experts can manipulate it. A scammer thrives not a technical trick but about trust, emergency and psychological pressure.
The reason why small business owners are vulnerable
- Technology made fraud easier and reliable
A sophisticated con artist can make fake emails and documents (even AI) to fake trust. - The victims often maintain silence in shame.
Walton’s mother did not speak when he was cheated, and it is a general reaction that prevents frauds from confirming. - A scammer is an emotional manipulator.
They are often attractive, convincing and calculated. Their goal is simple: get your trust and get money.
Seven most dangerous temples for small business owners
Walton’s book describes 14 red flags. This is the seven people who are most related to small business leaders with executable takeout.
- Inevitable help
- Watch: The person who suggests that you will solve the problem that you did not ask them to help.
- What to do: Politely decline and adherence to reliable torture.
- Overwhelming
- Watch: Luxurious gifts, favor or praise -too much.
- What to do: Laten the relationship and find external opinions.
- Constant emergency
- Watch: Endless personal crisis flow.
- What to do: Do not make financial decisions with pressure.
- TMI (too much information)
- Watch: Emotional clothing that attracts you quickly.
- What to do: Protect your personal information and maintain a professional boundary.
- Fake evidence
- Watch: A suspicious document that is difficult to check or “proof”.
- What to do: Always use the official channel before acting.
- Monopoly
- Watch: «Special Trade» or opportunity for you to use.
- What to do: Run through a trusted advisor. Rejection is timely.
- Multiple
- Watch: 3 or more signs in this list.
- What to do: Believe in the chapter and walk.
Pro tip to maintain business fraud
- Implementing the verification protocol (Same as a password for financial requests).
- Training the team Recognize the operation tactics.
- Foster speaking culture A place where employees can safely raise concerns.
- Keep the latest state for cyber security Security communication.
Listen to the whole conversation at a small business radio show.
