Festive Season Scam Alert: Protect Yourself from Holiday Swindles

In our approach to the year’s end, it is imperative that we remain vigilant, as a wave of scams has swept across our country.

With just 12 full weeks remaining until Christmas and another 53 weeks to the new year, people are increasingly falling victim to scams targeting their bank accounts, SIM cards, businesses, and even their vehicles.

Law enforcement agencies have issued warnings for citizens to stay vigilant in light of the ongoing scams that have been proliferating recently.

During this time of the year, it is essential never to place blind trust in anyone. Some unscrupulous individuals may entice you to purchase clothes, accessories, or phones online, only to demand an upfront payment, leaving you empty-handed. Moreover, they might subsequently block you across all their social media platforms.

In addition to online scams, some individuals receive deceptive messages from their banks, urging them to reboot their phones or confirm their PIN numbers and banking details.

Mobile network users have reported receiving calls seeking confirmation of SIM card details, only to discover that their numbers no longer belong to them. This indicates that a SIM swap or SIM portability has been carried out by unknown individuals.

Esam Mhlauli shared his unfortunate experience where he expressed interest in buying an online phone, only to realize it was a scam two weeks later, after he had paid a delivery fee of R150. He recounted,

I consider myself fortunate for not sending the R800 deposit they initially demanded before shipping the phone. However, when I requested a refund for the delivery fee, they became rude and insisted I send them more information for further scam attempts, asserting that the South African police couldn’t intervene.

Moreover, an elderly woman received a disturbing message from what appeared to be her bank, indicating, “Your FNB Account needs Immediate Update in the new FICA server. Enter -> www.shp.zone/zDOL & update your Account to avoid being restricted.”

Additionally, a concerning scam involves perpetrators hacking into phones, gaining access to contacts, and sending requests for money. It is essential to remain cautious and exercise due diligence.

Furthermore, individuals seeking job opportunities during December must be aware of scams that could lead to human trafficking, theft, murder, rape, or robbery.

Another report detailed a lady’s repeated issues with her MTN SIM card, as she frequently received calls from unknown numbers, followed by her SIM card being disconnected from the network. In the most recent incident, her e-wallet was emptied. The case has been reported to the police, with an ongoing investigation.

Scammers are known for their aggressiveness, and even the most cautious individuals can fall prey to their schemes. It is crucial never to disclose your ID number or bank PIN to strangers over the phone or in public. Seek assistance from individuals you trust, such as security personnel, the police, cashiers, neighbors, and family.

If you suspect you have fallen victim to a scam, it is essential to act promptly. Contact your bank, mobile network provider, and the police immediately to report the situation.

Additionally, it is advisable to press the “cancel” button multiple times before using an ATM to prevent unexpected deductions from your account. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and protect yourself from potential scams during the festive season.