Beware of fake transactions that could cost you money

POLOKWANE – Beware of accepting a proof of payment for goods or services at face value, as it could be fake.

One Polokwane couple was nearly a victim to this scam recently, and warned other residents to be careful.

The couple explained the fraudster’s modus operandi: “The fraudster will advise the person that a cash or electronic deposit will be made into his or her bank account, and a copy of the depo-sit slip, or proof of payment, will then be faxed or e-mailed”.

“We were selling one of our vehicles and placed advertisements everywhere including Facebook and other sites on the internet. A man replied saying he was in need of a second vehicle and would come to the house with proof of payment for the vehicle after depositing the money. He did this, but I just felt that something was not right,” Jo-Ann Marais said.

She said the man sent her the proof of payment by e-mail and said he would arrange for a colleague to collect the vehicle.

“But when I refused and told him I would prefer to wait for the money to reflect on my bank account, the man became angry and we have not heard from him since.”

Banks in the city confirmed that they were aware of scams such as these. They warned their clients to make sure that they first confirmed with their bank that such payments had been made.

Absa Hans van Rensburg branch manager, Jenny Brown, said banks had different ways of confirming payments made.

“We urge residents to confirm payments with their banks before letting go of their property,” she warned.

Polokwane police spokesperson WO Lesiba Ramoshaba said residents should be on the alert. He said such attempts should be reported to the police, as this would enable them to track down these fraudsters.

Danie Janse van Rensburg, a business owner who was a victim, shared some preventative measures.

“Wait for the proof of payment SMS to come through on your phone or arrange to be present when the payment is made. Avoid selling items on the internet,” he said.