ETHEKWINI Municipality has warned residents to be alert following reports of fraudsters posing as municipal officials and attempting to extort money from customers using a fake FNB bank account.

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Municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said the scammers have been sending fake payment requests to residents via Gmail emails and WhatsApp messages, claiming to represent the City. Victims are then instructed to make payments for municipal services into an account not linked to the Municipality.

“The City will never send an email from a Gmail account or a WhatsApp message requesting payment. We urge all customers not to fall prey to this scam,” said Sisilana.

Residents are reminded that the only legitimate FNB account number for eThekwini Municipality is 63165746323, which is printed on all official municipal bills. Those making EFT payments should also ensure they select the public beneficiary ‘eThekwini Municipality’ on their banking app to avoid being defrauded.

The Municipality has encouraged anyone who receives suspicious payment requests or communications to report them immediately to their nearest Sizakala Centre or by calling the City’s fraud hotline on 0800 20 20 20.

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