Fake B2B Leads & Directory Scams
Bogus business leads, directory listings and 'renewal' invoices that charge for nothing of value.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
What this scam is
Fake B2B lead and directory scams sell worthless business leads, or invoice you to 'renew' or 'confirm' a directory listing you never ordered, relying on busy staff to pay without checking.
How it works
You receive an official-looking invoice or renewal notice for a directory entry, listing, or lead package. Paying enrols you in a worthless or non-existent service, often with recurring charges.
Common red flags
- Invoices for directories or listings you don't recall ordering
- 'Renewal' or 'confirmation' framing to imply an existing relationship
- Vague service with no measurable value
- Pressure to pay before a deadline
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
Your business directory listing expires soon. Confirm and pay [amount] to keep your entry active.
Payment methods used
- Invoice payment
- Card
- Bank transfer
Who is usually targeted
- SMEs
- New businesses
- Admin staff
What to do immediately
- Check whether you actually ordered the service before paying
- Route unfamiliar invoices through proper verification
- Report misleading invoices to consumer authorities
Evidence to preserve
- The invoice/notice
- Any 'agreement' cited
- Payment records
Where to report it
- Action Fraud (UK) — UK national fraud & cybercrime reporting centre
- FTC ReportFraud (US) — US Federal Trade Commission fraud reports
- FBI IC3 (US) — US Internet Crime Complaint Center
- Scamwatch (Australia) — Australian competition & consumer reporting
- Your bank's fraud line — Use the number on the back of your card or in your banking app — never a number the caller gives you
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Frequently asked questions
Are these invoices enforceable?
Misleading 'renewal' invoices for services you never ordered are generally not enforceable, but the scam relies on you paying without checking. Verify any unfamiliar invoice before payment.