What Are Phony Invoice and Charge Scams?

Phony invoice scams involve fraudsters posing as legitimate vendors or service providers and sending fake invoices or notifications of charges. Sometimes the scam claims you’ve already paid for a service you didn’t authorize and then directs you on how to dispute the charge—leading you straight into their trap.

The goal? To trick you into clicking a malicious link, opening an attachment, or calling a fake customer service number. Once you engage, scammers may try to steal your account information or gain remote access to your device to install malware.

In the News

A recent example is the EZ Pass smishing scam. Victims receive a text claiming they owe an outstanding balance on their EZ Pass account, with threats of legal action if they don’t act fast. The message includes a link to a fake payment site designed to steal your information.

Common Tactics Used by Scammers

Impersonation

Pretending to be a trusted company or even your bank, often using cloned websites or logos.

Urgency

Creating pressure to act immediately, so you don’t have time to verify the details.

Multiple Channels

These scams often arrive via email, text message, or phone call.

Red Flags to Watch For

Unexpected Invoices

Charges for goods or services you didn’t order.

Unusual Payment Requests

Asking for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or other unconventional methods.

Errors and Inconsistencies

Incorrect logos, poor formatting, or suspicious contact details.

Urgency and Pressure

Messages that demand immediate action or threaten consequences.

Verification Issues

Instructions to dispute charges using links or phone numbers provided in the suspicious message.

What Should You Do If You Receive One?

Ignore and Delete

Ignore the email or text if you’re confident it’s fraudulent.

Verify Transactions

Review your account activity or call your bank directly.

Contact the Merchant Safely

Use official contact information from the company’s website, not the details in the suspicious message.

Never Click Links or Call Numbers

Never click provided links or phone numbers in the scam message.

Report Suspicious Activity

If you suspect fraud on your Machias Savings Bank account, call or visit your local branch or reach out to our Customer Service Team at 1-866-416-9302.

Stay Vigilant

By recognizing these warning signs and following safe practices, you can protect yourself from phony invoice and charge scams. When in doubt, verify before you act.

Phony Invoice & Charge Scams

If you receive an email from a contractor or vendor you’ve been working with on a big project letting you know that they’ve changed banks–PAUSE! Watch the latest video in our fraud series to learn how to protect your customers’ information and yours from phony invoice and charge scams.

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