THE police and banking industry have noted a significant increase in cases of extortion, making it a growing criminal trend that targets individuals and businesses, leading to financial losses and emotional distress.

According to the police: “Extortion is a criminal offence in which an individual unlawfully obtains money, property, or services from another person through threats, coercion, or intimidation.”

SAPS spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said these threats can include physical harm, property damage, false accusations, or the exposure of sensitive information; while Standard Bank’s Head of Fraud Risk Management, Advocate Athaly Khan, said fraudsters have adopted more sophisticated schemes and tactics.

“Common forms of extortion include blackmail, protection rackets, cyber extortion, and financial extortion,” said Ehlers.

Khan said there has been an increase in cases of fraudsters impersonating respected organisations such as the South African Reserve Bank, SARS or the SAPS.

“They claim to be investigating customers for serious offences, anything from fraud to money laundering,” said Khan.

Khan said these fraudsters go to extreme lengths to convince the targeted individual that they are from legitimate authorities, doing this via telephone calls, emails, documents and sometimes they suggest physical meetings.

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“The internet has become a prime hunting ground for fraudsters. Customers need to be wary of information they share on social media platforms as cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their orchestration,” said Khan.

The SAPS said these are the common warning signs of extortion:

• Unjustified demands for money, services, or favours.
• Intimidation tactics, including verbal threats or implied harm.
• Pressure to act quickly or under duress.
• Offers to prevent harm only in exchange for valuables or compliance.

Here are tips from the police and bank about what to do when targeted and how to protect yourself:

• Stay calm, do not panic. Fraudsters often use fear to manipulate victims. Take time to verify the legitimacy of the claims.
• Never send money or click on a link in response to unsolicited messages. Legitimate organisations, including banks, will never ask for payments or sensitive information this way.
• If you believe your bank account may be compromised, contact your bank’s fraud department right away. They can help you secure your account and investigate the issue.
• Regularly review your bank and credit card statements and report any suspicious transactions.
• Remain vigilant and cautious of suspicious or threatening demands.
• Avoid reacting impulsively to threats.
• Keep detailed records of all communications and demands.
• Report any suspected extortion incidents to the police without delay.
• Safeguard sensitive information online using strong passwords and encryption tools.

Ehlers said the police urges the public to report incidents of extortion by contacting the National Extortion Hotline number at 0800 911 011.

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