BONUS - RUSTENBURG - The South African Police Service (SAPS) management in the province has warned the public, with concern, regarding escalating fraud cases in places like Rustenburg, Hartbeespoortdam, Lichtenburg and Klerksdorp - among others.
Despite regular warnings and tips by the police and financial institutions, it is apparent that fraudsters continue to defraud unsuspecting members of the community.
It is vital that caution is exercised when conducting transactions with companies or individuals.
Recently, in Hartbeespoortdam and Rustenburg, bank account holders received calls from a person claiming to be a bank employee in the Fraud Department. The caller requested the account holders to urgently log on to their banking apps in order to stop fraudulent transactions. Consequent to accessing the details, the suspects withdrew monies from the victim’s accounts.
In some instances, potential car buyers responded to incredibly below the market vehicles sales advertisements on WhatsApp, Facebook and other online platforms. Moreover, the vehicles’ pictures would be shared to entice clients. The alleged fraudster/s would further inform potential buyers that the vehicle would be auctioned unless they secure it with a deposit. The fraudster/s would also share fraudulent documents to convince the potential buyers that the deal was legitimate and to pay the balance and delivery fees. However, no vehicle was consequently delivered.
Members of the community are requested to apply to the following safety tips:
* Upon receiving suspicious calls, hang up immediately if you feel pressured and call your bank’s fraud line.
* A bank employee will never ask you to give them a One Time Pin (OTP).
* At no time should you supply requested/confidential information to the caller.
* If you do not know a “family member” who lives in another country, then chances are that there is no person who has left an inheritance for you. Do not pay any money for taxes or clearance.
* Do not pay for a car if you have not viewed it physically.
Cars due for auction will be available for viewing at a given physical address and genuine auctioneers will never refuse you access to view the vehicle during business hours.
* Avoid replying to suspicious letters / emails / SMSes.
* Never disclose your ID, password or PIN to anyone.
* Put sensible transaction limits on your accounts.
* Be careful of something that looks too good to be true because it usually is.
