NORTHERN CAPE SAPS URGES THE PUBLIC TO REMAIN VIGILANT AGAINST COMMERCIAL CRIMES AND ONLINE SCAMS
The Northern Cape SAPS Management has noted with concern an increase in commercial crimes, particularly online scams and fraud, which continue to result in significant financial losses for unsuspecting victims.
Members of the public are therefore urged to remain vigilant and adopt precautionary measures when conducting online transactions or responding to unsolicited offers.
Criminals often entice victims with advertisements and deals that appear highly attractive or too good to be true.
Members of the public are advised to exercise extreme caution when purchasing goods online and to transact only through reputable and verified platforms.
It is essential to verify the legitimacy of sellers, products, and payment details before making any financial commitment.
Consumers are further cautioned against making electronic transfers or cash deposits for goods that have not been viewed or verified.
Whenever possible, transactions should be concluded in person after confirming the identity and contact details of the seller.
The public is also reminded to remain alert in public spaces, particularly at shopping centres, banks, and ATMs. Criminals may attempt to gain access to banking information through various methods, including electronic card-scanning devices.
Bank cards should be kept secure and out of easy reach, while personal banking information must be safeguarded at all times.
Under no circumstances should individuals share their banking details, card information, passwords, one-time pins (OTPs), or PINs with any person.
Members of the public are further warned to be cautious of fraudsters who falsely claim to be police officials, pastors, recruitment officers, government representatives, or other authority figures offering employment opportunities, interviews, financial assistance, or other services.
These scams are designed to deceive victims into making payments or disclosing personal information.
Online fraud and scams are often sophisticated and rely on misleading information to create a false sense of urgency or trust.
Members of the public are encouraged to verify all information independently before taking any action or making any payment.
Anyone who becomes a victim of fraud, extortion, or related criminal activities is encouraged to report the matter immediately to the nearest police station. Incidents of extortion can also be reported to the National #Extortion Hotline on 0800 911 011.
The SAPS remains committed to creating awareness and urges communities to stay informed, remain vigilant, and report suspicious activities to prevent commercial crimes and online scams.
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