Fake accounts and listings.
WHAT HAPPENS
Someone creates a profile, page or listing using your business name.
They take orders and payments from your customers.
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
Customers defrauded in your name Reputation damage Time spent resolving it
HOW TO FIND OUT
Search your business name periodically Monitor social platforms Listen to customers mentioning something you did not do
WHAT TO DO
Report the account to the platform Warn customers publicly Document everything Take advice if it is substantial
WHAT TO TELL CUSTOMERS
Your official channels That you will never ask for payment to a different account How to verify they are dealing with you
WHAT MAKES YOU HARDER TO IMPERSONATE
A consistent presence customers recognise Verified profiles where available A website that ranks first for your name
WHAT TO DO ABOUT PAYMENTS
State on your site which account payments go to.
Customers can then check.
