OUDTSHOORN NEWS -  The Western Cape Government’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism has issued a warning to tourists about a wave of scams targeting visitors, particularly elderly tourists, at ATMs.

According to Jacques Stoltz, director of tourism at the Western Cape Government, scammers often pose as security personnel or officials to trick unsuspecting individuals. “Essentially, tourists - especially elderly visitors - are approached by a well-dressed person who may be wearing fake security clothing or displaying a fake security ID,” Stoltz explained.

The scammers use various tactics to deceive their victims.

These include claiming that:

• A special permit is required to walk on the streets or in public spaces,

• A movie is being filmed in the area, or

• Tourists must pay for a parking permit.

Once they have convinced the tourists, the scammers then escort them to an ATM under false pretenses. At this point, they often use point-of-sale devices or devices resembling calculators to capture bank card details and PINs, enabling them to steal funds.

Advice to Tourists

To avoid falling victim to these scams, tourists are urged to keep the following in mind:

• No permits are required to walk in public streets or spaces in South Africa.

• ATMs do not issue permits of any kind.

• If approached about parking fees, verify the information by contacting the nearest visitor information centre or consulting staff at your accommodation establishment.

• Stay Alert and Report Suspicious Activity

• Tourists are encouraged to remain vigilant when approached by strangers near ATMs, especially individuals claiming to be security personnel. If approached in a way that raises suspicion, leave the area immediately and seek help from nearby authorities, visitor information centres, or trusted locals.

‘Ons bring jou die nuutste Tuinroete, Hessequa, Karoo nuus’