Fraud Bulletin: Impersonation attempt targeting Northeast shipper

A Northeast Blue Book member recently reported a fraudulent inquiry and purchase order from an individual impersonating Mivila Foods, a company located in Paterson, NJ.

Based on publicly available information, Mivila Foods appears to operate as a broadline foodservice distributor.  The company is not currently listed with Blue Book Services.

What Happened

The targeted shipper received an initial email inquiry late this February from an individual identifying himself as Steve Kavouklis, whose signature suggested he was the Supply Chain and Procurement Manager of Mivila Foods.

Over the course of several communications, the impersonator demonstrated industry familiarity and maintained a patient approach. And, on March 4, the impersonator submitted an order for two truckloads.

By this time, the shipper had  vetted the inquiry and knew all that was necessary to avoid making a mistake. Mivila Foods website content reveale a different email domain and phone line, than what the impersonator was providing as contact information. The shipper also contacted Mivila Foods directly and spoke with the real Steve Kavouklis, who confirmed the company is aware of someone or group is impersonating their business.

Fraudulent Contact Details Observed

• Email domain: @mivila-foods.com (fraudulent)
• Gmail account: stevenkavouklishmivilafoods@gmail.com
• Phone number listed in signature: (805) 354-1714

Blue Book Services contacted the phone number listed in the email signature and reached a MagicJack voicemail, which has been a common observation.

Verified Company Contact Information

• Legitimate domain: www.mivila.com
• Real Company phone: (973) 278-4148

Key Risk Indicators

• Use of a hyphenated, look-alike domain (mivila-foods.com vs. mivila.com)
• Secondary Gmail account used in correspondence
• Unverified phone number routing to MagicJack voicemail
• Gradual engagement before placing a sizeable order
• Demonstrated industry knowledge to build credibility

Industry Reminder

Produce companies should verify company domains, phone numbers, Blue Book listings and publicly available detail (in the event they are not listed by the Blue Book) before extending credit or shipping product.

Blue Book Services encourages companies to report fraudulent activity and other suspicious communications to rating@bluebookservices.com and PACAInvestigations@usda.gov.