The Attorney General's Office reported it has filed a consumer fraud lawsuit against three California businesses alleging that they placed calls and sent invoices designed to trick Iowa libraries and businesses into paying exorbitant prices for photocopier toner they never ordered.
The lawsuit names Central Supply Solutions, of Orange, California; Elite Supplies of Irvine, California; and Central Supply Center of Orange, California.
Authorities said the fraudulent practice is called a "toner pirate" scheme. Companies call businesses claiming to be their regular toner supplier and demand payment.
Attorney General Tom Miller said the lawsuit alleges that libraries, care facilities, professional offices, churches, and other small businesses across Iowa have complained to the Consumer Protection Division after being targeted by the three operations.
"Offices with staff changes may be the most vulnerable to this scheme," Miller said in a news release. "We've seen complaints where a new employee assumes he or she is dealing with an established supply arrangement and gets charged $400 to $500 for about $60 worth of toner."
In addition to a request for a permanent injunction, the lawsuit seeks refunds for Iowa victims and civil penalties.
