Edenvale SAPS warns against scammers and fraudsters online
Phishing and fraud scams are methods used to deceitfully obtain personal information
To reduce crime, Edenvale Police Station appealed to the community to be cautious of scammers and fraudulent transactions.
Edenvale SAPS communication officer Warrant Officer Jacob Mashile explained that scams can cost people a lot of money and cause a great deal of distress.
He said by implementing safety measures community members can avoid falling victim to scammers.
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According to Mashile phishing and fraud scams are methods used to deceitfully obtain personal information.
Information targeted includes passwords, identity numbers and credit card details.
“It is done by calling, sending emails or cellphone messages to the victim that look like they come from trusted sources, such as banks or legitimate companies,” said Mashile.
“Typically, these emails or cellphone messages request that users click on a link in the email, which will direct users to a spoofed website, a site designed to fool users into thinking that it is legitimate, to obtain, verify or update contact details or other sensitive financial information.”
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“These emails and messages also contain a telephone number and contact person whom you should call, as you are promised you could win large sums of money.”
How to prevent falling victim to scams and fraud.
• Never respond to emails or cellphone messages appearing to be from your bank, which request your personal details.
• Never provide your online ID, password or PIN to anyone, never write them down or share them.
• Do not save your internet banking password on your desktop.
• Do not leave your computer unattended after you have entered your internet banking password.
• Always log off or sign off at the end of a session.
• Avoid doing internet banking in public areas such as internet cafés, or on any publicly accessed computer.
• Change your PIN and passwords frequently.
• Put sensible transaction limits on your accounts.
• Only provide your credit card details to reputable companies.
• Never send money, or give credit card or online account details to anyone you do not know and trust.
“If it looks too good to be true, it usually is,” said Mashile.
