A stolen identity document (ID) is a perfect opportunity for criminals to commit fraud and it creates a potential risk to industries and consumers.
The South African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) makes it their mission to combat and prevent fraud by assisting the industry in allowing its members to list fraudulent activities on a shared SAFPS database. The SAFPS further offers consumers a free service to report stolen or lost IDs and protect consumers who fall prey to identity fraud or theft.
The SAFPS urges consumers to notify them of lost or stolen IDs. The benefit is that all member organisations, including all banks, most clothing and furniture stores and insurance companies have access to the SAFPS database.
SAFPS executive director, Manie van Schalkwyk, said that easy steps can be followed if you have fallen victim to a stolen or lost ID.
- If your ID is lost or stolen, complete an affidavit and have it commissioned by a Commissioner of Oaths.
- Also, obtain a receipt from the Department of Home Affairs confirming your application for a new ID.
- Contact the SAFPS via their website www.safps.org.za
The website steps are as follows:
- Visit the website and download the PR form and the affidavit template
- Complete the forms and have the affidavit commissioned by a commissioner of oath
- Email the completed forms to id@safps.org.za
- Call the SAFPS after 48 hours to request your PR number
One could also call the SAFPS and follow the instructions or SMS the word protectid to 43366.
Captain Alex Vermaak from Linden SAPS said that one should still report a stolen or lost ID to the police. If it is stolen a case has to be opened.
Details: SAFPS, 011 867 2315.
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