Authorities are warning the public to be aware of social media scammers after a recent case in which an 18-year-old falsely posed as a needy student in need of rental assistance. The suspect, who claimed to be from Mgodini in Flagstaff and a member of Dudumeni School, went on social media seeking financial assistance.
A swift investigation of the matter confirmed that Dudumeni is a primary school and does not have the individual in its records. The principal at the school explained that the uniform the individual had on in the pictures published on social media is not from their school. Attempts to call the individual did not yield anything, as the provided phone number rang straight to voicemail.
This is the latest in a developing trend of social media scams where individuals fabricate tales to collect money from unsuspecting good Samaritans. Authorities urge people to verify such accounts with relevant institutions before they can offer financial assistance to avoid falling prey to scams.
As social media continues to be a trending platform for appeals and fundraising, users are reminded to exercise caution, conduct background checks, and report suspicious incidents to prevent exploitation.
