Eskom and Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) are warning community members about a fraudulent billing scam targeting businesses and residential customers. These letters falsely claim to be from Eskom and threaten customers with disconnection and permanent removal of electricity infrastructure if payment is not made.

Eskom emphasises it does not issue disconnection notices through these means, nor does it ever threaten permanent infrastructure removal in correspondence.

“The letters are not from the entity, the banking details contained in these letters do not belong to Eskom, and should not be used under any circumstances.”

ELM said it is also aware of individuals identifying themselves as Addy and Mike, calling business customers and falsely claiming that Emfuleni and Eskom will disconnect electricity if payment is not made.

“In some cases, the accounts cited are reportedly up to date. Please note that Eskom does not issue disconnection notices in this manner. If you receive a call from a cellphone number claiming that we will disconnect you, please be advised that this is a scam. Our legitimate Call Centre number is 016 100 8037; that is the only legitimate number you should use to reach us.

“We urge customers to remain vigilant and not to make payments to unknown or unverified bank accounts. Any suspicious communication should be reported to Emfuleni Local Municipality or Eskom to the Eskom Crime Line No 0800 11 27 22 or WhatsApp 081 333 3323.”