Fake Partnership Scams
Bogus business partnerships or distribution deals used to extract fees, stock, or sensitive data.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
What this scam is
Fake partnership scams propose a lucrative partnership, distribution, or franchise deal that requires you to pay setup fees, buy stock, or share sensitive information — for an opportunity that doesn't exist.
How it works
A convincing 'partner' offers exclusive rights or a big contract, then introduces conditions: registration fees, mandatory stock purchases, or upfront costs. After payment, the partner disappears or the deal proves worthless.
Common red flags
- Exclusive deal requiring upfront fees or stock buys
- Pressure to commit quickly
- Vague partner with limited verifiable history
- Requests for sensitive business data early
Sanitized example messages
Illustrative, sanitized examples. Personal details are replaced with placeholders such as [phone number] and [fake link].
Become our exclusive regional distributor — just pay the [amount] onboarding fee and buy initial stock.
Payment methods used
- Setup fees
- Stock purchases
- Bank transfer
Who is usually targeted
- SMEs
- Entrepreneurs
- Distributors
What to do immediately
- Vet the partner thoroughly before committing funds
- Avoid upfront fees and forced stock purchases
- Use clear contracts and legal review; report fraud
Evidence to preserve
- Proposals and contracts
- Fee demands
- Partner details
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
How do we evaluate a partnership offer safely?
Verify the company and people, insist on transparent contracts with legal review, and be wary of upfront fees, forced stock purchases, and pressure to commit before due diligence.