Yesterday, an article appeared in The San Diego Union Tribune titled “County Issues Alert on Health Inspector Scam” about a scam happening in San Diego, the home city of Present Value’s west coast offices. Apparently, a phony health inspector has been calling area restaurants and, claiming that there are new procedures for arranging a health inspection, obtains personal information from the business owner. The scammer then uses that information to set up fake accounts on online auction sites. The health department wants to remind restaurant owners that health inspections are always unscheduled, and they will never provide restaurants with advance notice of their visits.
But the scam could have a ripple effect, because what happens to the people who participate in an auction conducted by a fake seller? It’s so important that buyers who choose to make purchases through auctions make sure they know that they’re working with a reputable auction house and a legitimate seller.
For several years, Present Value has been involved in the auction industry. The company can help a seller by performing an inventory inspection, conducting a machinery or equipment appraisal, and putting the seller in touch with a reputable auction house, which protects both the seller and potential buyers.
