Help, am I being targeted?

Garrison

I'm in the 1st month of setting up my own photography business and on Monday received a telephone call by someone claiming to be from 'the Chamber of Commerce' requesting to know the name of the company owner. I didn't tell him as I smelt something a little fishy and asked why he needed to know? The chap on the phone stated that a new small business government directive was being released next week and it was part of that. I didn't let him finish, but asked what his name and contact details were so that I could get back to him after checking him out. The telephone he was calling from had been withheld and he gave fictitious details; a telephone number that didn't exist and the name of somebody who has never worked for the chamber of commerce (I checked with my local, the NECC). They also had a second go in the afternoon of the same day; I simply put the phone down on them.

Since then, I can't get it out of my mind that I'm being targeted for CC fraud. We're all expected to have our names displayed on our websites these days so it isn't rocket science to work out who I am against my company name.

What could anyone do with my company name (sole trader) and personal name? Is there anywhere for me to check if any bank accounts, loans etc have been created against me or the company?

jd87

Garrison wrote: »

Is there anywhere for me to check if any bank accounts, loans etc have been created against me or the company?

Experian/Equifax credit check?

Garrison

Would these things contain details of all accounts and loans in your name, please? I've not seen how in depth they might be.

maza68

Yes credit reference agencies such as Experians would have info containing your loans etc.
You can check with them if someone tried to open an account in your name etc. Also see if there is a company mentioned in your report who have done a search on you and has nothing to do with any of your past credits. That could also be an indication. Experian has a free 30 day trial at the moment.

ILW

From my experience of a small business, I think it is most likely some sort of advertising scam. They send out invoices and hope you will pay them for inclusion in some sort of online directory. In general there is no reason why you should not give the name of the business owner, just keep your wits about you. As a new business you will be bombarded with all sorts of dodgy offers.

Garrison

Thanks everyone, your replies have been very helpful.