The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating several Canadian businesses that are suspected of fraudulently ordering materials from the U.S.,having them shipped to Canada, and then not paying for the goods or shipping costs.
Calling the scheme “Operation Canscam,” the FBI said the fraud so far has hit U.S. trucking and logistic companies, lumber and construction materials retailers, tire retailers, auto parts retailers and paint supply companies.
According to the FBI, the fraudulent businesses are typically based in or around Montreal, QC, and request a line of credit for a U.S. business.
These Canadian businesses will fax or e-mail references, credit documents, and/or tax documents to prove authenticity. The Canadian businesses will then place an order for materials on a line of credit granted and arrange for shipping by a third party. The materials are hauled to Canada—but payment for the product and shipping is never made.
The FBI said these allegedly fraudulent Canadian businesses are currently or have previously been involved in this scheme:
• Canstruct, Inc.
• AYA Distributors
• Xpress Auto Parts
• Point Tech Performer, Inc.
• Emptech
The FBI is asking companies that have been victimized by any of these entities or any other Canadian businesses using these methods to complete an online questionnaire.
The FBI has also asked that any U.S. companies that have been targeted in the scam to maintain any and all documentation, including original electronic documents or e-mails.
Investigators also asks anyone who is approached by the scammers to attempt to document any telephone conversations, specifically dates and times they may have occurred.
For more information call (877) 236-8947 and select Option 2. If you have additional information you would like to provide, email: canscam@ic.fbi.gov.