Kagiso Police warned the public to refrain from buying expensive products or property online and using various forms of digital and social media such as Facebook and Money Market, among others.
Captain Solomon Sibiya, Kagiso Police spokesperson said management have noticed with concern the continued complaints by victims who claim to have been scammed of cash through the above-mentioned means of communication.
“We are appealing to the public to note that people who are perpetrators of such crime are sophisticated and good at manipulating and convincing unsuspecting buyers. Also be suspicious if the product or property is far less priced than you have anticipated – if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.
If you have strong suspicions or know any person behind money scams, report that to your nearest police station or our Crime Stop Line 08600 10111. You can also use our SMS line: 32211 or give your tip-offs via the My SAPS app and you can remain anonymous.”
Kagiso Police advise the following:
• Do not send cash to someone you don’t know unless you have physically seen the product and made genuine confirmation and verification.
• Try to consult with professional or business orientated people who can help you make a final decision whether to buy or not. Such people will also help you verify the address and credentials of the seller, to determine whether the seller is a South African citizen or not, and other relevant information that will also eliminate chances of you being scammed or victimised. If the seller is a foreigner, try to verify if the person is in the country legally and then follow the same procedure to find out more about that person.
• When you deposit cash for someone, please make sure that the code given to you remains your secret. Be protective and always cautious; don’t even confirm it with a teller or any shop personnel.
