Police in Standerton held an awareness campaign on commercial crime and fraud awareness tip offs on March 20 in the town’s central business district. The increased number of fraud cases reported daily has led the team to share and warn the Standerton community.

The Standerton Vispol support members, led by acting Vispol commander Lieutenant-Colonel Shane Mokoena, set up a gazebo on the pavement between Charl Cilliers Street and Mbonani Mayisela Street. They shared information and also warned the community about the increased number of fraud cases reported daily.

Information focused on the scamming incidents at ATMs in the CBD. Police spokesperson Sergeant Sipho Ndaba said most victims lose their money and bank cards.

The public was sensitised to refuse assistance from strangers during withdrawals or deposits at ATMs. Shoppers were also warned of suspicious scam links on their cellphones.

“They must not share their personal information with strangers, nor share one-time PINs (OTPs) on request by any person,” said Ndaba.

The awareness campaign also extended to areas surrounding the CBD, Junxion Shopping Centre, Monument Centre, and Standerton taxi rank.