City warns of scam targeting pensioners
The municipality has highlighted that the only rebate they are currently offering is a rates rebate and no other service.
ETHEKWINI Municipality has warned of a new scam targeting pensioners. In a statement, the city said the scammers, who pose as city officials, call pensioners to offer them a rebate for water meters.
“The caller issues a reference number to the resident and informs them that they will be contacted by another official in the coming days and a form would need to be completed and signed to qualify for the rebate. The municipality confirms that there is no such process nor under any circumstances will customers be asked to make on the spot cash payments,” read the City’s statement.
The municipality went on to highlight that the only rebate they are currently offering is a rates rebate and no other service.
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“Property owners qualify for the rebate on their primary property when they turn 60. This rebate is renewed annually. Both new application forms and renewal forms are found on the municipal website. All rebate renewal forms are completed and submitted to our municipal offices. Payments are made strictly only via our municipal banking halls, Sizakala centres and or our third party collectors indicated on the bill. Any new application by a pensioner can be done at any of the customer service centre or downloaded via www.durban.gov.za and submitted via email or at one of the municipal customer or Sizakala centres,” the City added.
Customers are urged to be vigilant to avoid falling prey to criminals posing as municipal employees. Any representatives of the municipality will have an ID tag with a photograph, ID or employee number with the municipal logo.
If residents are suspicious of anything, they can contact the toll free number 080 311 11 11, visit https://correspondence.durban.gov.za:200/ call the City Investigation Unit on 0800 20 20 20 or go to the nearest police station.
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