Press Release: ITIC warns members of fraudulent invoices relating to coronavirus testing

ITIC, the International Transport Intermediaries Club, has been receiving an increasing number of reports of fraudulent invoices being submitted to vessel owners and managers for medical testing services following the outbreak of the coronavirus.

For the shipping industry, the impact of the coronavirus is still largely unknown but a number of countries, ports and organisations have implemented preventative measures to minimise the impact of the outbreak. With more than 89,000 people infected worldwide, and sadly more than 3,000 people losing their life to the virus, providing medical tests to seafarers is one measure that is being widely adopted by owners and managers.

ITIC has noted that fraudulent invoices often contain errors which can be easily detected by those responsible for settling disbursement accounts. For example, a recent case involved an invoice where the vessel was listed with an incorrect flag. By simply checking with the vessel’s Master it was quickly confirmed that the invoice was fraudulent.

ITIC strongly urges members and others responsible for settling disbursement accounts – and in particular ship managers - to be vigilant and to check all invoices in relation to coronavirus testing. 

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For further information please contact:
Katerina Dimitropoulos, Navigate PR
T: +44 203 326 8463
E: kdimitropoulos@navigatepr.com

About ITIC

International Transport Intermediaries Club (ITIC) is the world’s leading provider of professional indemnity insurance to transport professionals across the globe.

As a mutual insurer, it has over 90 years’ experience providing cover to companies in the marine, naval architecture, aviation, offshore and hydrographic industries. With 2,900 members in over 110 countries and with a worldwide network of correspondents, ITIC is the acknowledged leader in its field.

ITIC’s insurance has been developed primarily to cover claims of negligence – errors or omissions. Cover can also extend to specialist areas such as debt collection, loss of commission income, cyber liability, cash in transit and directors’ and officers’ insurance. ITIC’s wide cover also includes a unique discretionary insurance which could support claims not normally be paid by other professional indemnity insurers.

ITIC is managed by Thomas Miller. More details about ITIC and the services it offers can be found at www.itic-insure.com