Metro warns of fake utility bill scam
Fraudsters are using a bogus domain by which to impersonate the city, and officials have urged residents not to engage with these and to report suspicious messages immediately.
Residents have been urged to be on high alert after the Tshwane metro uncovered a scam in which fraudsters are circulating messages to defraud customers through fake utility bills.
Metro spokesperson, Lindela Mashigo said the scam involves a .co.za domain that closely resembles the metro’s official platforms, but is not legitimate.
“We want to warn residents not to engage with or respond to these fraudulent messages,” he said.
He said all legitimate utility bill correspondence is sent through the SA Post Office, the city’s internal SMS system which excludes third parties, or an official .gov.za email address.
“Customers are also able to access their statements securely through the eTshwane portal or by visiting walk-in customer care centres.”
Mashigo emphasised that payments must only be made using approved channels.
“Residents can make payments via the e-Tshwane platform or through accredited third-party pay points such as the Post Office, Pick n Pay, USave, OK, Spar, Boxer, Shoprite, Checkers, Caltex, BP, EP kiosks and at banks including FNB, Absa, Nedbank, Standard Bank and Investec,” he said.
He also called on residents to remain vigilant, verify the source of any messages, and report suspicious activity to the Tshwane Metro Police Department on 012 358 7095/6.
Mashigo condemned the scam, adding that investigations are underway.
“These criminal acts are unacceptable, and the city is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book,” he noted.
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