Thieves use actual names, rip off almost two dozen discount stores
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Two thieves, using their actual names, managed to rip off almost two dozen popular discount stores.
At Sam's Club, the pair filled out credit application forms using the names of legitimate businesses, and included themselves as users on the account.
They had photos taken of themselves and used their actual names and personal information.
"The most unique thing is essentially how stupid the bad guys were," U.S. Postal Inspector Carla Menendez said.
The suspects purchased high-ticket items like TVs, laptops, and iPads -- and then sold them.
Postal inspectors say it wasn't hard to catch up with the duo once Sam's Club fraud investigators tipped them off.
"Going in and allowing their own picture taken in a Sam's Club allowing their own personal information to open these accounts thinking they are just going to get away with it," Menendez said.
They did get away with it for a little while, and that time gap is exactly what the suspects counted on.
They would usually use an account for two weeks, and then move on.
"Most of these business were very large businesses, therefore they make a lot of money and a lot of purchases," Menendez said.
In all, there were 21 companies impacted and tens of thousands of dollars in losses.
Inspectors say most of the companies were unaware of the charges.
"Purchasing a computer, laptop is related to their business and wouldn`t make them question it unless someone brought it to their attention," Menendez said.
Inspectors say their advice to businesses applies to everyone -- always check bank statements and your credit report every year.