‘Beware of ID fraud’

Bank fraudsters have now surfaced in Centurion, police warned.

This follows after a foreign national was caught red-handed recently trying to withdraw money from a bank using a false ID book.

According to information received by Rekord, the manager of the bank alerted ADT security when the suspect wanted to withdraw R30 000.

It was then discovered that the suspect had withdrawn R20 000 the previous day from a mall in Irene.

Mike Kidson, managing director of ADT Northern Region, said in a statement that identity fraud was a major issue for banks in South Africa.

He said having a reliable security service just a call away could assist in curbing this type of crime.

“I encourage bank managers to seriously consider linking into a security service that can offer quick support when fraudulent transactions occur,” he said.

Warrant Officer Hero Gumbu cautioned members of the public to keep their personal belongings safe, including their ID books. He confirmed that several cases of similar crimes had been reported and that the fast approaching festive season was the time when people should be extra alert, especially when going to the bank to withdraw money.

“We would like to warn the community not to go to banks alone when withdrawing large amounts of cash and to refuse help from strangers at ATMs.”

The matter is still under investigation.