New York, NY

Friday, July 27, 2012

Kessler International is reporting an alarming increase in cases involving invoice payments made to fraudulent bank accounts because of fake information on real invoices. Clients have come to Kessler from around the world after having suspicions about or having already paid invoices that contain fraudulent banking information. These invoices are created by hackers who access web based email accounts and then are able to create replica invoices that have fraudulent bank account information contained on them but appear valid otherwise.

Kessler is advising their clients to scrutinize any email address they are receiving payment requests from to ensure that they are consistent with where such requests usually originate. Even if an email address appears valid, it may have been spoofed.

Businesses are also advised to scrutinize the invoice they have received. If the logo appears blurry and the other information is clear, it may be that the scammer is using a copy of a valid invoice, and printing the fraudulent banking and payment information onto the copy.

Businesses should additionally check the contact information on the invoice. If it is different from that typically seen and if it differs from what is shown in an accompanying email, it may be worth questioning.

A fraudulent invoice may not always be the vehicle used to divert funds. Kessler recently had a number of clients who were sent copies of invoices that were valid, but were accompanied by an email telling them that due to a banking snafu, monies should be sent to an account not associated with or listed on the invoice, thereby leaving the original invoice intact but managing to relay fraudulent banking information regardless.

If you have already fallen victim to a scammer, we can help. We can examine emails, correspondences, account numbers and invoices in order to assist you in determining where things went wrong. It is all too easy for scammers to perpetrate false documents, but with help, it may be easy for you to find them as well.

About Kessler International

Established in 1988, Kessler's satisfied clients are comprised of Fortune 500 companies, prestigious law firms, government agencies, corporate entities and individuals worldwide. Its diverse staff includes forensic accountants, computer forensic examiners, licensed investigators and researchers.

For more information, visit Kessler's website at www.investigation.com.

Michael G. Kessler

President and CEO

Kessler International

New York, NY

212-286-9100