THE South African Police Service in Despatch is eager to reduce the levels of crime by informing community members of the dangers of online or SMS scams that are on the rise.
“Various different scams are used to con people and we would like to warn the community to be more alert,” said police spokesperson Captain Gerda Swart.
Innocent recipients receive either an email or SMS requesting them to confirm their banking details.
These methods of deceitfully obtaining personal information, such as passwords, identity numbers and credit card details by calling, sending emails or cellphone messages look like they come from trusted sources, such as banks or legitimate companies, but in fact they are from con artists.
Typically, these emails or cellphone messages request that users click on a link in the email, which will direct users to a spoofed website.
These sites are designed to fool users into thinking that it is legitimate to obtain, verify or update contact details or other sensitive financial information. These emails and messages also contain a telephone number and contact person whom you should call, as you are promised you could win large sums of money.
“Never respond to emails or cellphone messages appearing to be from your bank, which request your personal details. Remember that no bank will ever ask you to confirm or update your account details via email or sms,” said Captain Swart.
– HEILIE COMBRINCK
