What is a Scam?
A scam is a deceptive scheme or trick used to cheat someone out of something, especially money.
Who is a scammer?
A scammer is anyone who perpetrates a scam. He/she commits or participates in a fraudulent scheme or operation.
How fashion scams are carried out?
Fake bank alert: As an online or offline fashion vendor, some clients may need to transfer money to purchase an item. Some will show or send fake bank alerts to you as evidence of payment. Many scammers use this trick from time to time to scam unsuspecting fashion entrepreneurs.
Shoplifting: It means taking goods from a store without paying for them. Shoplifting can only be done in a physical fashion store. Even though shoplifting is a criminal offense, the offender can only be punished when caught. Some may hide clothes, shoes, bags, make-up products in their bags, underwear, etc.
Wardrobing: Many don’t consider wardrobing a scam, but it is. Wardrobing is buying a cloth, wearing it, then returning it afterward. Some fashion vendors usually rent or sell clothes to their clients. In wardrobing, the clients buy the cloth and wear them for the event they need them for, then complain about the dress, return it and get their money back.
Manipulating records and inventories: Fashion fraud is not only carried out by clients. At times, it is done by employees. This type of fraud is hard to decipher because they are in charge. Some employees falsify records to scam their employers or take fashion items without paying for them.
How to avoid getting scammed as a fashion entrepreneur.
When you are scammed by your employees or someone very close to you, it is quite difficult to uncover. These people know you in and out. However, these tips are useful to help you reduce or eradicate scams.
Be vigilant: If you have a physical fashion store, you have been very vigilant. Monitor the activities carried out in your store. Don’t be too relaxed and carried away when customers are around. If you don’t have employees, you can walk around to assist your clients. This way, you can avoid getting scammed.
Confirm and re-confirm credit alerts: Credit alert scam is very popular. Make sure you confirm your bank transactions. Don’t rely on the screenshots and messages sent to you by your customers. Politely ask them to hold on until the money reflects in your account.
Keep proper business records and inventories: As a fashion entrepreneur, you should know the inflow and outflow of capital in your business. The number of clothes, bags, shoes, hair extensions, etc available. Most times, scams can be solved when detected early.
Make clear return policies:As a fashion entrepreneur, your clients should know your return policy. It should be clear. If goods are bought in good condition, they should not be returned. Good business policies will drive scammers far from you.
Conclusion
Scam can be reduced to the barest minimum or completely avoided when you are running a fashion business. You don’t have to suffer a small and huge loss. You have to be careful and business smart at all times to avoid being scammed.
Reference
Oxford dictionary
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