OUDTSHOORN NEWS - The Oudtshoorn Detective Services are urgently appealing to the community to be on the lookout for fraudsters, following a noticeable increase in fraud case files since the beginning of 2025.
According to Colonel Russel Koeries, Commander of the Oudtshoorn Detective Branch, unscrupulous criminals are particularly targeting pensioners and vulnerable individuals through so-called one-time passwords (OTPs) and other devious methods to gain access to bank accounts.
How does the fraud work?
Koeries warns that fraudsters often pose as bank staff. They call victims with a credible story and then send an OTP to the person’s cellphone. Once the victim shares the OTP or PIN, the fraudster gains immediate access to personal and banking details.
In other cases, victims are asked to log into their banking application (app) while the fraudster remains on the line, which allows access to the account.
Social media and online purchases
Purchases via social media have also become a popular target. Victims are lured with vehicles or other items advertised at unusually low prices. Conversations are then continued privately or via WhatsApp, after which “immediate payments” are requested.
Once the money has been deposited, the fraudsters often request further payments, sometimes under the pretext of delivery costs or “auction” fees. False courier waybills are also regularly sent to victims. In many cases, the vehicle or item simply does not exist.
“Fraudsters also pose as buyers. They send forged proof of payment to sellers and request that the item be shipped. Only later do the victims realize that no money has ever reflected in their account.”
Other common scams
Emails in which bank details are suddenly changed. Businesses and individuals should always confirm with service providers by telephone whether the change is genuine.
- Fraudsters posing as police or municipal officials demanding money for so-called packages at airports or to avoid arrest.
- Threats that electricity will be cut off unless payment is made.
- Job applications or opportunities that require a “fee”.
- Unknown links (lefts) via WhatsApp, SMS or email.
Important tips for readers
If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Verify the identity of anyone you buy from or sell to.
- Make sure money appears in your account before handing over or shipping an item.
- Confirm with the bank that the account holder’s name matches the person you are negotiating with.
- Never share your OTP or PIN with anyone.
- If you are unsure about a call from so-called bank staff, end the call and contact your bank directly.
Official institutions will never request money via WhatsApp or use personal bank accounts.
Koeries points out that immediate payments make it difficult to get money back or freeze accounts in a timely manner. Fraud investigations are time-consuming as information must be obtained from banks and cellphone companies through subpoenas. The high volume of cases places further pressure on these institutions.
“Please remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately to your nearest police station.”
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