Wonderpark Mall warns shoppers about half-price scam
Mall security management urges shoppers to report incidents to security guards.
Shoppers in the north of Pretoria have been warned to be extra cautious following scams involving individuals posing as shop employees offering products at half price.
A local security company has raised concerns about this trend, which has been plaguing the Wonderpark Mall for months and leaving unsuspecting customers out of pocket.
According to security management William Modiba, these scammers typically approach shoppers in the corridors or outside popular retail stores, claiming they have access to discounted goods or can offer items at half price due to staff benefits or internal promotions.
He said once the victims are convinced, they are asked to hand over cash up front, only for the scammers to disappear without delivering the promised goods.
“It’s a sophisticated scam that plays on people’s desire for a good deal.
“These individuals present themselves well, sometimes even wearing uniforms similar to those of actual staff. They build trust very quickly before vanishing with the victim’s money,” said Modiba.
Modiba said these incidents have occurred inside and outside several large chain stores, including electronics and clothing retail shops.
“What makes the scam particularly challenging to tackle is that most victims only realise they’ve been scammed after it’s too late, and many are embarrassed to report it.
“When you encounter such incidents, please report them to the security guards of the mall or those stationed inside the shops,” he said.
He reminded shoppers that all legitimate sales and promotions happen inside stores, with proper receipts and price tags.
“No staff member is authorised to sell products outside the normal purchasing process. If someone offers you a private deal, it’s a scam.”
The mall’s management has also intensified security patrols and is working closely with Akasia SAPS to monitor CCTV footage and identify repeat offenders.
Shoppers have been urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious individuals immediately, and never hand over money for items that are not processed through official store counters.
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