(I) High-tech identification
(1) Identify various important documents forged by fraudsters. The general characteristics of forged documents are: uneven color; incomplete and unclear fine lines; deformed patterns, designs, and lines, uneven thickness, or differences; complex patterns are blurred. Although some forged documents are made using some precision instruments and are difficult to distinguish between true and false with the naked eye, through electronic technology analysis, it is easy to see the phenomenon of “white leakage” where the text is not covered by ink on fine lines. In the identification of watermarks, when forged documents are viewed against the light, the layers of the image cannot be seen. The watermarks on genuine documents are clear, natural, and layered when viewed through. When tested under ultraviolet light, the watermarks on fake documents fluoresce, while the watermarks on genuine documents do not glow, etc.
(2) The electronic network for import and export trade can quickly feedback various situations and data of the parties, which are mastered and identified by the industrial and commercial, customs, taxation, foreign exchange, banking and other departments.
(II) Make full use of risk avoidance measures
The use of risk avoidance measures is very important in the practice of import and export trade. For example, in the sale of complete sets of equipment with huge amounts of money or in trades with delivery in batches, importers should strive to use revolving L/C to avoid risks. In general, fraudsters will certainly oppose the use of revolving L/C, because this method can make the final payment occur after the equipment is properly installed or each batch of goods is delivered, which can ensure that the quality of the goods provided by the exporter meets the requirements of the L/C. In the opening of L/C, do not open a transferable L/C and avoid using a freely negotiable L/C. The content of the L/C clauses must be clearly defined. Exporters may consider using confirmed L/C as much as possible and correctly choose international trade terms. In order to prevent L/C fraud, exporters should try to use C-group trade terms (such as CFR, CIF, CPT, CIP, etc.), and importers should try to use F-group trade terms [such as FCA (Free Carrier), FAS (Free Alongside Ship), FOB, etc.].
In chartering and booking transactions, avoid dealing with shipowners of flag of convenience ships that are “shell companies”. At the same time, be careful not to rent old ships and choose ships that are suitable for the characteristics of the goods to ensure the safety of the goods during transportation. In addition, documents must be strictly reviewed and identification of counterfeit L/Cs and “soft clause” L/Cs must be strengthened. Once discovered, the L/C should be modified.
(III) Strictly prevent giving others a handle
Avoiding greed, impatience, vanity and adhering to principles are the most basic and eternal ways to prevent fraud in the business world. If you understand the principles of foreign trade, you can operate flexibly and remain true to your principles; if you accumulate practical experience, you can see the flowers in the fog without being confused.