Bramley police are warning the community to be careful when shopping online saying most fraudsters tend to take advantage of the festive season’s frenzy.
According to the police, it has been noted with concern the escalation of crime connected to online shopping during this spending season.
These types of crime often leave the community helpless and frustrated, said Bramley Police Station’s spokesperson, Captain Molefe Mogodi.
Mogodi said it all starts when the buyer visits the website and starts making business deals without properly ensuring the legitimacy of the advert.
At some point the seller will put an advert which attracts the interest of the potential customer, he said.
“In most situations, the buyer accepts the offer without making proper verification of the seller’s details which results in a loss on the part of the buyer,” said Mogodi.
“Furthermore, the seller can also be a victim of fraud emanating from online shopping. It usually occurs when the buyer deposits the money into the bank account of the seller. The seller then releases the goods with the understanding that the transaction has been finalised, only to find out later afterwards that the customer has reversed the payment while the goods are already gone.”
It also happens that the customer defrauds the seller by using a fraudulent method and claim that he or she had deposited more money than it was agreed to and requests the seller to pay back the extra amount, he added.
Later on, the seller will be notified, usually by the bank, about the fraud and Mogodi said this also applies to those who make holiday reservations.
“The community should be aware of email interception – it is advisable for any communication between the seller and a buyer through email should be confirmed telephonically to make sure that there is no third party involved,” added Mogodi.
Also, he advises that when buying cars online, one needs to go to the dealership and personally check that the address and the car exist before paying into any bank account that has been provided by the seller.
Details: Captain Molefe Mogodi 011 445 4100.
