myBama
Purchasing

Buyer Beware

Protect your Department from scams targeting the University.

Common Scam Targets

  • Office Supplies: pens, paper, toner, ink
  • Maintenance Items: light bulbs, cleaning products
  • Advertising Services
  • Fake Invoices & Solicitations
IMPORTANT

Never share account numbers or personal information via phone or email. Your bank or card provider already has your details—don’t give them out.

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Contact from unknown vendors not approved by Purchasing
  • Fake retail websites or hacked legitimate sites trick users into buying nonexistent or low-quality products.
    • Warning signs: Unrealistic prices, unsecured URLs, no contact info, poor reviews.
  • Promises of free gifts or samples
  • Misleading product descriptions (wrong brand, size, or quality)
  • Refusal to accept returns

 How to Stay Safe

  • Use approved contract vendors
  • Get all offers and agreements in writing
  • Only work with verified vendors
  • Implement strict purchasing and accounting controls within your Department
  • Educate your team about scam tactics
  • Be cautious of unsolicited calls or emails asking for names or info
image of a phone and lines indicating talkingIf You Suspect a Scam
  1. Do not engage further.
  2. Report it immediately to Purchasing Card Services at pcard@ua.edu .
  3. Document everything—names, company, phone number, and any communication.