Description

A sophisticated fraud scheme is currently targeting businesses in the tile, design, and construction trades. The scammers impersonate AECOM, a large and well-known construction and engineering firm, to gain credibility and trick victims into releasing valuable materials. How the Scam Works Initial Contact Victims receive calls or emails from individuals claiming to represent AECOM. The scammers use convincing details such as corporate email addresses (often with slight variations, e.g., @aecom-usa.com) and professional-sounding phone calls. Placing Orders They request large orders of tile or building materials, often name-dropping actual AECOM employees or project names. They insist on Net-30 terms (delayed payment) instead of standard COD or upfront payment, citing “AECOM company policy.” The order is rushed and made to appear urgent to pressure the business into shipping quickly. Delivery Once the material is shipped, the scammers redirect it to storage facilities, freight depots, or rented warehouses. Delivery drivers may be instructed to bring materials to ordinary storage units or warehouses that appear legitimate on the surface. After Delivery Payment never arrives. When victims attempt to contact the supposed AECOM representative, the phone numbers and emails used by the scammers are suddenly disconnected. In some cases, the scammers use multiple aliases and rotate names to avoid detection. Red Flags to Watch For Requests for large orders with Net-30 payment terms from new or unverified customers. Slightly altered domain names in emails (e.g., @aecom-usa.com instead of the real AECOM domain). Pressure to rush shipments without proper vetting. Instructions to deliver to storage units, warehouses, or locations unrelated to a major construction project. Resistance to signing standard credit applications, lien agreements, or providing verifiable trade references. Known Impact Victims have reported losing tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of materials. Materials ordered include tile, stone, and other building finishes. Evidence suggests that the stolen goods are quickly resold or exported. ?? Advice for Businesses: Always verify credit applications directly with the company’s corporate office before approving Net-30 terms. Be suspicious of new accounts requesting large, rushed orders. Check email domains carefully for slight alterations. If possible, require payment upfront for new customers until trust is established. Report suspicious activity immediately to law enforcement, your insurance carrier, and trade associations.