THE Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) has warned consumers about fraudsters who promise previous victims of fraud big compensation from the company.
The scammers claim they are representatives of the SAFPS, and request victims to make a payment of R950 to receive a higher amount as compensation for being a previous victim.
SAFPS CEO Manie van Schalkwyk said an advance-fee scam was one of the most common types that tried to lull consumers into a false sense of confidence.
“The SAFPS is concerned and is urging the public to be vigilant. This is another example of the risk-based environment facing consumers and how easy it can be to potentially become victims if they are not actively looking for red flags,” said Van Schalkwyk.
He said that the scam typically involved promising the victim a significant share of a large sum of money in return for a small up-front payment.
He said the fraudster assured that payment would be used to obtain the larger sum, that never materialises.
Van Schalwyk said this was their modus operandi:
- Solicitation occurs via WhatsApp;
- The fraudster makes promises of compensation if you have previously been a victim of fraud;
- They request a payment of R950 to receive a higher amount in compensation for being a previous victim;
- They make illegal (unauthorised) use of the SAFPS name and brand;
- They provide a falsified proof of payment from Capitec, supposedly showing that others have been compensated;
- They produce a falsified letter from the SAFPS.
He further assured consumers that the SAFPS did not operate in the above manner, and would never employ these tactics.
“Should you receive a letter, call, SMS, email or WhatsApp message soliciting payment in the name of the SAFPS, do not comply with the requests as this is a fake initiative. Alert the SAFPS of this contact immediately,” added Van Schalwyk.
