Someone recently rang a shop and asked to purchase some gift cards. A the shop did not have them in stock, the caller suggested they buy them from a nearby supermarket that was running a sale. They pointed out that the shop could make more money by selling them at full price.
A staff member went to the supermarket, bought some cards and then, over the phone, sold two to the caller, before another person in the shop intervening because of suspicions of fraud.
It was theft, plain and simple.
The moment someone on the phone suggests you go to another shop to purchase something the call should be over.
While cyber crime is all in the news right now because of Medibank, Optus, Harcourts and more, there has been no decline in old-school fraud, like described above. This is the time of the year, when we are busy, and maybe with our guards down because of this.
It is worthwhile reminding team members to be on the lookout. Unless you know the person, be suspicious. And, for sure, never transact over the phone unless you are absolutely certain you know the person.