How to Avoid Toner Pirate Scams

What Is a Toner Pirate?

Toner pirates are scam artists whose goal is to talk unsuspecting office staff into purchasing replacement toner that is low-quality or sometimes non-existent. They may call and tell you that the price of toner is about to go up and encourage you to place a large order to save money. They might also offer you a special discount on your order, or offer you free bonus toner cartridges.

How Do Toner Pirates Get Your Information?

They do research about your business and employees, and then call claiming to be your toner supplier. Two of the primary methods toner pirates use when calling are to say they are updating their records, or they want to send you free updated manuals for your copiers. They will then ask for the model numbers of your copiers

How to Avoid Toner Pirate Scams

The best way to avoid these scams is to take advantage of your print providers managed print services. Managed print services keep you safe and informed by helping you understand your print environment. They will teach you how to see through the scams.

Another way to stay safe is to ask for a phone number so you can call them back before placing any orders. Toner pirates will generally give up at that.

It is also important to keep your employees up-to-date on the latest scams as most scam artists are always coming up with new ways to take advantage of people.