Blackburn businesses warned over bogus invoices (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Blackburn businesses warned over bogus invoices

11:03am Monday 30th April 2012 in Crime news

BUSINESSES and charities across Blackburn with Darwen are being warned to watch out for a sham company posting invoices and demanding payment for non-existent work.

The scheme was first discovered in Croydon where 72 complaints relating to a company called Slom Solution Ltd were lodged within three days.

The company is sending out invoices implying that advertising on an internet directory, called www. britishintheweb.co.uk, has been ordered, and seeking payment of £298.68.

Now a charity in Darwen has had a bill, and members are keen for others to be vigilant.

Julie Brindle, of Derwent Hall, in George Street, which provides activities for elderly people, said: “It looks like a proper invoice, and if it had gone to our committee chairman or treasurer, it would have been paid.

“It’s only because I didn’t recognise the name and checked it out online that I found out about the scam.”

Chris Allen of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “This type of scam relies on businesses not being diligent when paying invoices so I would advise people to be very careful.”

If you have concerns about a rogue company call the public protection team on 08454 040506.

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