We are hearing increasing reports of clients being scammed by out-of-state Toner Phoners who sell inferior products at inflated prices. Here is their typical approach:
- 1st call: They claim they are updating their records and need the model and serial number of your copier. Once they have this information, they know the brand of copier … they’re ready for the 2nd scam call a few days later.
- 2nd call: They imply they are calling from our company and claim prices are getting ready to jump due to some fabricated disaster or shortage (ie: factory burned, tariffs, etc.) … they’ll tell you that to avoid the price increase, you should BUY NOW!
Note: Our TotalCare Service Contracts include toner as part of the “per copy” charge so we have no reason to call to sell you toner if you are on this plan; if your Service Contract does not include toner, you are able to order online from us so again, no reason for us to call you.
How do you avoid being victimized?
- 1. Advise your office staff of the scam (we will never call to ask you for your model & serial #, it’s already in our system).
- 2. If you get a call or visit from someone claiming to be with our company, ask
- for a local phone number, you can call back on. At this point, the scammers usually get belligerent or may simply hang up.
- 3. If you receive bogus toner, don’t pay for it! Call the out-of-state company & tell them to pick it up … they will make a lot of threats but stand your ground, they sold the products under false pretenses and should eventually leave you alone. You can contact the Better Business Bureau or the nearest Federal Trade Commission office for further assistance.
We appreciate your business and hope this information will help you avoid being victimized.
Thanks,Chris M. Black
President
