Kriel SAPS warns residents against rising cases of scams, fraud and theft under false pretences
Kriel SAPS has warned residents to remain vigilant against scammers who are increasingly using fake identities, fraudulent online advertisements and impersonation tactics to steal money and personal information from unsuspecting victims.
Kriel SAPS has issued a community-wide warning urging residents to remain vigilant against scams, fraud and theft under false pretences as criminals continue to target unsuspecting victims through increasingly sophisticated methods.
Police say fraudsters are exploiting technology, social media and impersonation tactics to deceive people into handing over money, personal information and valuable property.
According to Kriel SAPS acting communication officer, Constable Sboniso Magagula, criminals often pose as trusted individuals such as bank officials, police officers, government representatives, service providers and online sellers to gain the confidence of their victims.
Residents are being urged to exercise caution when dealing with strangers, online transactions, unsolicited messages and callers requesting personal or financial information.
READ MORE: Former Eskom buyer, 3 associates convicted of R8.5m fraud in eMalahleni
Common scam tactics
Among the most common scams reported are banking scams, where criminals claim to represent financial institutions and request confidential details such as Pins, passwords and one-time passwords (OTPs).
Police have also highlighted phishing and smishing scams, in which fraudsters send emails or SMS messages containing malicious links designed to steal personal or banking information.
Social media platforms and messaging applications, including WhatsApp, are also being used by scammers who impersonate businesses, family members, friends and even law enforcement officials in attempts to solicit money or sensitive information.
Online shopping fraud remains another major concern. In many cases, criminals advertise goods at unrealistically low prices, demand upfront payment and then disappear without delivering the promised items.
Police have also warned residents to be cautious of fake proof-of-payment notifications used to obtain goods fraudulently.
Investment scams are likewise on the rise, with victims often lured by promises of quick profits or guaranteed financial returns.
Kriel SAPS has further warned the public about criminals falsely claiming to be police officials and demanding money from victims to prevent supposed arrests or make criminal cases disappear.
“Do not let urgency, fear or the promise of a bargain cloud your judgement. Stop, verify and think before you pay or provide personal information,” Magagula said.
Police safety tips
Kriel SAPS has provided the following safety tips:
• Think before you act. Do not allow anyone to pressure you into making immediate payments
• Verify before paying. Confirm that the person, business, or service is legitimate
• Never share confidential banking information. Do not disclose your Pin, password, or OTP to anyone
• Avoid suspicious links. Do not click on links received through unsolicited emails, SMS messages, or social media platforms
• Confirm payments independently. Do not rely on screenshots as proof of payment
• Be wary of bargains that seem too good to be true
• Verify online sellers and buyers before entering into transactions
• Meet in safe, public places when conducting face-to-face transactions
• Do not grant strangers remote access to your cellphone or computer
• Trust your instincts. If something feels suspicious, stop the transaction and verify the information yourself
Case against three postponed in alleged R1.8m SARS fraud
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) September 30, 2026
Read more ⬇️https://t.co/AdNL0OFb0f
Reporting fraud
Members of the community who become victims of fraud, scams or theft under false pretences are encouraged to report incidents immediately at their nearest police station and preserve all available evidence, including messages, emails, advertisements, banking records and transaction receipts.
Residents can report crimes and emergencies by calling 10111, anonymously report information through Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or contact the Kriel SAPS communication line on 079 891 5030 or the Community Service Centre on 082 798 0723.
Police have urged residents to share the warning with family members, particularly elderly relatives and other vulnerable individuals, to help prevent more people from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.
Your city, your story, as it happens. Stay in the loop with WITBANK NEWS.
Find us on our website, Facebook, X, Instagram or TikTok
Got a tip? Email: info@witbanknews.co.za
