Wholesalers are not immune to identity theft.
Of late there has been reports of rogue companies setting up fake websites and bank accounts and using a legitimate company’s wholesale dealer’s authorisation to ‘successfully’ run a wholesaling operation.
The use of a fake wholesaler would no doubt introduce falsified medicines into the supply chain. Unfortunately, like most crime, falsification is opportunistic, occurring where defences may be at the lowest, not necessarily where profits are highest. So all companies should be aware of the likelihood of falsification. This is not just for companies dealing in ‘high priced’ medicines.
Due diligence checks MUST always be followed. Be observant to company changes in address, phone number, bank details, website or web domain. If changes are introduced contact the company using the ‘old’ details to verify the changes. For new suppliers ensure you check the company details thoroughly and question if something is out of the ordinary or doesn’t add up.
Written by Puveshni Pillay