FBI Launches 'CanScam' Investigation Webpage
(Jan. 7, 2013) – The FBI and Canadian authorities continue to investigate a series of alleged cargo thefts against shippers of building material suppliers in the U.S. and parts Canada.
The FBI, which traced the scams back to Canada, launched an investigation called Operation CANSCAM and set up a webpage for companies to detail their activities with the fraudulent companies.
“The FBI is currently investigating the activities of allegedly fraudulent Canadian business entities,” the FBI said in a statement.” In summary, the scam begins when a Canadian business (typically located in or around Montreal, Quebec) requests a line of credit with a U.S. business.
"The Canadian business will fax or e-mail references, credit documents, and/or tax documents to prove authenticity. The Canadian business will then place an order for materials on the line of credit and arrange for shipping by a third party. The materials are hauled to Canada, and payment is never made.”
The alleged fraudulent businesses go by the names: Canstruct, Inc., AYA Distributors, Xpress Auto Parts, Point Tech Performer, Inc. and Emptech as allegedly.
According to the FBI, the alleged scheme has targeted lumber and construction material shippers and retailers (lumber, siding, roofing, flooring, etc.), tire and auto parts retailers, and trucking and logistics companies.
Anyone with information can contact the FBI at canscam@ic.fbi.gov
(Jan. 7, 2013) – The FBI and Canadian authorities continue to investigate a series of alleged cargo thefts against shippers of building material suppliers in the U.S. and parts Canada.
The FBI, which traced the scams back to Canada, launched an investigation called Operation CANSCAM and set up a webpage for companies to detail their activities with the fraudulent companies.
“The FBI is currently investigating the activities of allegedly fraudulent Canadian business entities,” the FBI said in a statement.” In summary, the scam begins when a Canadian business (typically located in or around Montreal, Quebec) requests a line of credit with a U.S. business.
"The Canadian business will fax or e-mail references, credit documents, and/or tax documents to prove authenticity. The Canadian business will then place an order for materials on the line of credit and arrange for shipping by a third party. The materials are hauled to Canada, and payment is never made.”
The alleged fraudulent businesses go by the names: Canstruct, Inc., AYA Distributors, Xpress Auto Parts, Point Tech Performer, Inc. and Emptech as allegedly.
According to the FBI, the alleged scheme has targeted lumber and construction material shippers and retailers (lumber, siding, roofing, flooring, etc.), tire and auto parts retailers, and trucking and logistics companies.
Anyone with information can contact the FBI at canscam@ic.fbi.gov