Edenvale SAPS warns of bogus cops extorting funds
“No police officer is allowed to request money of any kind,”
Edenvale SAPS warned community members to remain alert in light of recent phone call scams whereby perpetrators pose as police officials.
According to Edenvale SAPS communications officer and acting Vispol commander Warrant Officer Jacob Mashile, the scammers pose as high-ranking police officers in an attempt to extort money from unsuspecting victims
Mashile said the scammers employ tactics that create a sense of urgency.
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“They claim that the victim or their family are involved in a criminal investigation.”
Mashile said the perpetrators may use official-sounding language or go so far as to manipulate the caller ID to appear legitimate.
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“We urge the public to exercise caution,” said Mashile.
Advice that the police station shared included:
• Verifying the caller’s identity: If community members receive a call from a person claiming to be a police officer demanding money, they are advised to hang up and call their local police station, on a verified number, to confirm the legitimacy of the call.
• Keep personal information private: Do not provide personal or financial information over the phone, especially to unknown callers.
• Report suspicious activity: If community members believe they have been targeted or received a suspicious call they should report it to their nearest police station.
Mashile encouraged community members to share information about these crimes to help others from falling victim to the scams. “It’s a serious offence to impersonate a police office.”
He emphasised that police officers do not call individuals to make payments.
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“The only money payable to the police is for administration purposes and a receipt will be issued after such payment is made at the police station.
“No police officer is allowed to request money of any kind,” said Mashile
He told community members to always get an official proof of payment at the police station when and if a payment is made.
