Scam-Prevention For Your Small Business: Smart Strategies to Stay Safe

Scammers see small businesses and nonprofits as prime targets. They know you're juggling a thousand things at once — and they’re counting on it. With clever tactics and convincing schemes, they aim to slip past your defenses, costing you time, money, and potentially your reputation. At Opportunity Bank of Montana, we’re committed to helping Montana’s small businesses thrive. That includes helping you stay informed and protected from fraud.

“Small businesses are often targeted because scammers assume they have fewer resources to detect fraud,” says Heather Barnhart, BSA/Fraud Officer at Opportunity Bank. “But with the right training and safeguards, you can help stay one step ahead.”

Scammers use a variety of tactics to deceive business owners and employees. Understanding the most common types of scams is the first step toward prevention. Here are a few of the frequent schemes targeting small businesses today:

Scammers send realistic-looking invoices for products or services you never ordered. They may also gain access to a legitimate invoice, then doctor it to make it appear past due or provide different payment instructions.

Tip: If you receive a request from a vendor to send payment to a new bank or in a different way (wire transfer instead of check), call them at a number you already have to verify. 

Tip: Always verify these claims independently. Government agencies don’t demand payment over the phone, and they do not accept gift cards or cryptocurrency.

3. Tech Support Scams

You might receive a call or pop-up warning that your network is compromised. The scammer offers to “fix” the issue, either for a fee, or tries to gain access to your systems.

Tip: Never give remote access to someone who contacts you unexpectedly. If you're unsure, reach out to a trusted tech support contact — whether that’s your IT provider, internet service provider, or a knowledgeable professional you rely on.

4. Phishing, Social Engineering & Ransomware

Scammers send emails or messages that appear to come from trusted sources, like a manager or vendor. These messages often contain links or attachments designed to steal credentials or install malware.

Tip: Train staff to recognize phishing attempts and avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading unknown files.

5. Online Listing & Advertising Scams

You may be tricked into paying for fake directory listings or advertising services that don’t exist.

Tip: Research any company offering advertising services. Look for reviews and complaints online.

6. Business Coaching & Grant Scams
Some scammers offer fake coaching programs or government grants, using high-pressure tactics and false promises to get you to pay upfront.

Tip: Be wary of “too good to be true” offers. Verify grant programs through official government websites.

7. Credit Card Processing & Equipment Leasing Scams
Scammers may promise lower offers or better equipment deals, then use fine print or deceptive contracts to lock you into costly agreements.

Tip: Never sign blank documents. Always request full copies of contracts before signing.

Prevention starts with awareness, but it also requires clear policies, training, and a culture of caution. Here are some practical steps you can take:

• Train Your Team

Educate employees about common scams and encourage them to speak up if something seems suspicious. Make it clear that no one should send sensitive information via email—even if the request appears to come from a manager.

• Verify Invoices & Payments

Establish clear procedures for approving purchases and verifying vendors. Be cautious of anyone demanding payment to a new account or in a new way. If an existing vendor sends new payment instructions, contact them using a known phone number to verify. Never use the phone number in the email.

• Be Cyber-Smart

Don’t trust caller ID or unexpected emails. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Use strong passwords and keep your software updated.

• Do Your Research

Before working with a new vendor, search their name online with terms like “scam” or “complaint.” Ask for references and check reviews.

Tools like multi-factor authentication, dual approval for payments, and real-time alerts add extra layers of protection against fraud and unauthorized access.

Scammers are creative, persistent, and constantly evolving. But with awareness, training, and a few smart practices, your business can stay protected. At Opportunity Bank, we’re here to support you, not just with financial tools, but with resources to help you grow safely and confidently.

If you ever suspect fraud or need help securing your business accounts, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local branch or our business banking team.