How to Spot a Business Lending Scam

Trust, Integrity, and Doing Business the Right Way

There has been a noticeable increase in fraud, scams, and bad actors targeting business owners. Unfortunately, it has never been easier to create the appearance of a legitimate business. What remains difficult—and rare—is building a business that lasts.

Longevity requires trust. Trust requires integrity.

We’ve heard firsthand stories from clients who have experienced scams, fraud, or questionable practices. You are not alone. At Clear Skies Capital, we have encountered similar tactics from so-called counterparties in our industry—and, at times, from potential clients as well.

Fraud is rooted in deception: false pretenses, misrepresentation, or manipulation designed to obtain money or information. It can take many forms—some obvious, others sophisticated. Common examples include pressure or fear-based tactics, bait-and-switch offers, altered bank statements, phishing emails, spoofed domains, or communications that appear professional but lack substance.

The goal of fraud is speed and confusion. The foundation of trust is clarity and consistency.

How Trust and Integrity Reveal Themselves

Legitimate businesses tend to leave clear, verifiable signals. These are not guarantees—but they are indicators of accountability and integrity.

Trust Your Instincts First

• If something feels off, pause.
• If an offer seems too good to be true, slow down.
• Asking questions is not distrust—it’s good judgment.

Common Warning Signs to Be Aware Of

Phone Calls

• The caller does not represent a company you knowingly applied with
• They cannot clearly explain how they obtained your information

Emails

• Messages related to applications or approvals from unknown or unexpected senders
• Screenshots of official-looking documents rather than verifiable originals
• Email domains that do not match the company name, attachments, or website
  • Example: an email sent from a generic or mismatched domain claiming to represent a branded company

These inconsistencies often indicate a lack of operational integrity.

Practical Ways to Confirm Legitimacy

Rather than relying on claims, look for evidence.

Explore the Company’s Website

• A clearly listed physical address (verify that it exists)
• A phone number and professional email address
• Visibility into the owner, founder, or team
• Licensing by Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI Number)
  • While not required in all cases, licensing adds an additional layer of accountability and oversight

Look Beyond the Website

• Search the company name and owner name online
• Check for independent reviews on trusted platforms
• Review social media presence (consistency, real content, actual people)
• Look for LinkedIn profiles associated with the company or its leadership

Legitimate businesses tend to leave a trail—over time, across platforms, and in the real world.

A Simple Principle to Remember

Integrity is how a business operates when no one is watching.
Trust is what develops when that behavior is consistent.
Legitimacy is what can be verified.

Taking the time to validate who you work with is not skepticism—it’s stewardship of your business.

At Clear Skies Capital, we believe transparency, accountability, and long-term relationships matter. We encourage business owners to ask questions, seek clarity, and work with partners who welcome verification rather than avoid it.

Trust compounds. Integrity leaves records. And legitimate businesses stand up to scrutiny.

For more advice on protecting your organization, visit the FTC Small Business Guidance page.