Dundee residents are urged to stay alert as fraudsters target online shoppers and bank customers, with police warning of financial losses and stolen banking information.

Sergeant Siyabonga Nkwanyana, SAPS spokesperson for uMzinyathi, said fraudsters were targeting unsuspecting residents through fake online advertisements and deceptive tactics at ATMs.

Verify sellers and protect your bank details

Residents are urged to exercise caution when buying goods through social media platforms and online marketplaces. Scammers advertise products, request payment and then disappear without delivering the goods.

Police advise buyers to verify sellers before making payments and avoid deals that appear too good to be true.

ATM users are also warned to watch out for criminals who use distraction techniques, swap bank cards or offer unsolicited assistance to steal cards, cash and confidential banking information.

“Never disclose your PIN to anyone, cover the keypad when entering it and contact your bank immediately if you suspect your card or account has been compromised.”

Nkwanyana urged anyone who had fallen victim to a scam or suspected fraudulent activity to report it to their nearest police station.

Victims should preserve evidence that could assist investigations, including receipts, bank transaction records, screenshots of online advertisements, messages and contact details.

Police have also encouraged residents to share the warning with family, friends and neighbours to help prevent further victims from falling prey to these crimes.