A RECENT surge in scams involving online buying, selling and even donating to non-profit organisations has prompted Brighton Beach Victim Friendly Unit to urge the public to be cautious when dealing with any of the above scenarios.

Also read: Police warn Merebank residents of online scams

Chantal Bransgrove-Bower, Brighton Beach Victim Friendly Unit chairperson, said, “Many people are buying things, lending money or even sending money without first checking. To lose all your money is very traumatic, so do it for us and for yourself and take precautions to check first that the claim is valid.”

She advised residents to take simple but vital precautions to protect themselves while transacting, especially online.

“If you’re buying an item, check it first before paying. Make sure it works and that it is what it claims to be. Not all ‘stores’ online are legitimate. Do your background checks, read reviews and verify the site or seller. A little bit of extra work can save a lot of money,” said Bransgrove-Bower.

When selling items, Bransgrove-Bower warned against handing goods over based solely on a proof of payment. She said that the paper can be easily manipulated. “Only hand over the item once you actually have physical money or it reflects in your account. I personally had an Uber arrive at my doorstep to collect an item. I work with the motto, no money, no item,” said Bransgrove-Bower.

Also read: Protect yourself against fraud and scams

Non-profit organisations rely heavily on the donations of the community. Bransgrove-Bower said that it is always a heartwarming gesture to support various NPOs, however some NPOs have been involved in scamming people for their money.

“If an organisation claims to be an NPO, you can check https://www.npo.gov.za to see if their name is on the register. We have various registered NPOs on The Bluff, but also a lot of scams. NPOs have bank accounts and accountants and many are PBOs so are registered with SARS and can provide tax certificates. Some organisations are registered as an NPC and will show up on CIPC. You can see if they are compliant, active and properly registered,” said Bransgrove-Bower.

Genuine NPOs and non-profit companies are usually transparent in their operations, but it is important to always do background checks on them.

The Victim Friendly Centre is urging the public to be vigilant.

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