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ALERT: Small to Medium Business Scams

Writer's picture: JskiJski

Text reads: "Someone recently tried to scam us...check out the details below." Red siren and blue lights on black background suggest urgency.

We had recently gained traction, and our social media channels began complimenting our sales and marketing funnel. A potential client reached out to us requesting our comprehensive package. They expressed significant interest in getting started. Things were looking good. We held our first call, drafted the project plan, and sent over an invoice. The client shot us a message, letting us know the proposal looks good. However, they have one “question.” 


This is when things started to go wonky. They informed us they are already working with a designer to build their brand portfolio and guidelines. The designer only accepts cash payments, and our potential client claimed they could only make a credit card payment.


Our bells started ringing. Something felt off; however, we had a similar legitimate experience in the past. So, we agreed to the terms under the following conditions:


  • The client will send over a valid government ID

  • The designer will send over a valid government ID

  • The client will fill out a w9 


The next morning. The invoice was paid. We contacted the client and informed them we could not start the project until the proper documents were produced. The client began to come up with delays, and producing the IDs took over 30 hours. Here is what they looked like:


Can you spot what sealed the deal for us?

Ohio driver's license with a photo and personal details, including name, address, date of birth, and expiration date. Blue and gray design.

Illinois identification card on a textured surface, showing a photo, name, address, and details like height and eye color.

This is how we handled it:


  • Once we received the photo, we went to our local police precinct to file a report. Be advised the local precincts are not resourced to handle this matter.

  • We attempted to refund the payment but were unable to because the payment was made via check through Quickbooks

  • We reached out to QuickBooks to get as much information about the payment as possible.

  • We reached out to the payee’s bank and reported the suspicious activity

  • We sent an email to the client. It said:




“Hello Mr. Baron.


Thank you for your patience. Due to the unusual activity, we have refunded the transaction. The amount of $10,xxx.xx, paid via check xxx on 1/xx/2025, will be refunded. You can expect this payment to be refunded to the original account in 3-5 business days.


After careful consideration, we have notified our CEO and believe it’s in both of our best interests to discontinue further communication regarding any future business.


I appreciate your understanding and wish you the best of success in your endeavors.”


  • We waited


They immediately stopped communicating with us. Moral of the story… 


  • Be alert to Small-to-medium business scams

  • Not all money is good money

  • Train your employees to be alert

  • Don't be overzealous to get started with a project - not every project is for you


By the way, here’s some information on the “client,” JUST in case. Share it with your local businesses:


🚨Mike Baron🚨

🚨Mike B Baron🚨

🚨Bryan Baron🚨

🚨Jeremy Shon Lemons🚨

🚨1-442-899-3659🚨

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