Employment scamster targets local resident

ACCORDING to Statistics South Africa, the country has an unemployment rate of 25 per cent and it is this situation that has left the door open for fraudsters trying to swindle people out of the money they have. Employment scams have become one of the most common cons used by fraudsters to entice unsuspecting victims.

Schemes frequently involve using a reputable company’s name to create a false sense of trust, as was the case with a recent job scam. A Durban North resident, who did not want to be named, said she was targeted by a scamster who claimed to be from a recruitment company.

“The lady said she could organise a job as a data capturer for Netcare and all I needed to do was transfer R2 900 to her account. She was extremely convincing and credible and said she was a Sai Baba devotee.

“What made me suspicious was when the lady phoned back, asking if I knew anyone else looking for a job. ‘If you’re in recruitment why ask me? I have tried to get my money back but it’s been to no avail” she said.

A case of fraud has been opened at Durban North SAPS. Lt Raymond Deokaran, spokesman for the station, said the most important thing to remember is that you should never have to pay for anything to get a job.

“Some scams will ask you to pay for a background check or credit check as a condition of employment. Others will instruct you to wire money for a training kit or employment supplies.

“We want to make residents and organisations aware that these are scams especially now when people can do with any extra money,” he added.

“The golden rule is still if it seems too good to be true, then it probably is. If you have been scammed, please report it to the police.”