Brakpan police urge community members to exercise extra caution when using online platforms, especially banking applications.

As the festive season approaches, many people will be receiving appreciation gifts or bonuses from their employers, often in the form of cash.

According to Brakpan SAPS Sector 1 manager and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi, cybercriminal activity tends to increase during this period, and the public is urged to remain vigilant and protect themselves from online scams.

She shared the following tips:
• Keep your banking credentials strictly confidential

• Never share your ATM PIN or one-time password (OTP) with anyone, even if they claim to be from your bank

• If you have any doubts or notice suspicious transactions, visit the bank in person rather than responding to phone calls or messages.

“Rather be safe than sorry,” added Buthelezi.

Another common platform used by scammer is online dating sites.

“We urge women of all ages to be careful when using these sites because some people are on them as criminals scouting for vulnerable unsuspecting victims,” said Buthelezi.

She advised women to not share personal information such as their home address, workplace address or contact details with people online.

Buthelezi explained Brakpan police have in the past months recorded cases of rape in which victims fell prey to online dating scammers.

ALSO CHECK: Trio ties up Huntingdon resident, steals vehicle in house robbery

“The suspect lures women into falling for them online, makes an appointment to meet at a private place unknown to the woman and then rapes and robs them of their cellphones and cash,” she said.

Buthelezi advised women to be wary of anyone who pressures them to meet in private or unfamiliar locations.

“Whenever as a woman you meet a man online, have an interest in that man, and decide to meet with him, please take precautions and save yourself from being victimised or even losing your life,” she said.

“Make sure you meet at a public place like a restaurant. Always make sure your family members know where you are going and with whom.

ALSO CHECK: Brakpan weekend crime round-up: Gunmen storm business, flee with five vehicles

“Send a live location to one or two family members. Give out information about the transport you are using to your family members.

“Have a small amount of cash with you for a taxi or an e-hailing service in case you need to get yourself back home.

“Do not leave your open drink unattended, and do not allow yourself to exceed your alcohol intake limit. Drink responsibly.”

Brakpan SAPS remains committed to raising awareness and participating in initiatives to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“We call on all women and men to stand up together with law enforcement agencies against criminality,” concluded Buthelezi.