Standerton SAPS warn against fraud

The Standerton SAPS warn the community to be vigilant about potential fraud and scams.

Captain Braam Robberts, communications officer of the Standerton SAPS, defines fraud as an instance wherein a person gets lured into a false sense of security by another person who wants to gain a benefit.

“Internet scammers are faceless, unidentifiable and constantly preying on people’s natural tendency to look for a good deal,” said Robberts.

In most cases, this deal is too good to be true but too beneficial for victims to resist.

These criminals will often advertise goods and services, taking advantage of consumers’ desperation.

Several residents in the community have reportedly been victims of fraud.

Polls on local WhatsApp groups indicate that 32% of residents who participated have lost money because of fraud.

“We warn residents not to deal with unknown sellers, advertisers or agents without checking their credentials first,” added Robberts.

The SAPS recommend seeing the goods for sale before making a payment.

Furthermore, recruitment agencies will never expect anyone to pay any registration fee. Vacancies typically get advertised in the newspaper or on a business website.

“Banks will not ask you to access your banking app regarding account withdrawals; in these instances, you will be called to the bank or receive a reference number from the fraud unit,” explained Robberts.

Banks will never ask you for your Pin to rectify such situations.

Vehicles should be purchased with verified documents and proof that the vehicle is in the condition stated in the advertisement.

“Always ensure the vehicle is registered correctly and not reported stolen,” added Robberts.

In cases where you have inherited money, a lawyer will contact you directly.

You cannot win the lotto if you have never bought a ticket.

Scam messages are among the most common cases of fraud.

Around 57% of Standerton residents have received fraudulent messages promising fortunes.

“Any promise of a quick return of big profit to a small input should be avoided,” said Robberts.

The SAPS urges the community not to go into business ventures with unknown people or hand their phones to strangers.

It is important to check credentials in all endeavours to protect yourself from fraud.

“Fraud is a crime that can mostly be prevented by acting on your good sanity,” concluded Robberts.