Police warned of scams in the north of Pretoria which cost unsuspecting victims a lot of money and offered pointers on how to stay safe.
They said in a statement the scams include phishing and fraudulent scams in which people’s personal information such as passwords, identity numbers and credit card details are obtained. This was done by calling, sending emails or messages which appear to come from trusted sources such as banks or legitimate companies.
“Typically, these emails or cellphone messages ask users to click on a link in the email that will direct them to a spoofed website,” the statement read.
Spoofed websites are sites designed to lure users into thinking it is safe to obtain, verify or update their contact details or other sensitive financial information.
“These emails and messages also contain a telephone number and contact persons whom you should call as you are promised you could win large sums of money.”
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Police offer the following pointers to avoid falling victim to scams and fraud:
– Never respond to emails or cellphone messages appearing to be from your bank Bogus ‘cops’ cheat north woman out of thousands The police warned the public not to fall for any scam which requested money from them before any services were rendered. Which request your personal details as no bank would ask for account details to be confirmed or updated by email.
– Never provide an ID number, password or PIN online, nor write it down or share it with anyone.
– Do not save internet banking passwords on a desktop.
– Do not leave a computer unattended after entering your internet banking password.
– Always log or sign out of internet banking at the end of a session.
– Avoid using internet banking in public areas such as internet cafes or on other computers that can be accessed by strangers.
– Change banking PINs and passwords regularly. – Place reasonable transaction limits on accounts.
– Only provide credit card details to reputable companies.
– Remember: if something looks too good to be true, it usually is.
– Do not send money, give a credit card to or online account details to an unknown or untrustworthy person.
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