BETHAL – Local police warned residents about the increase of fraud cases in the area.
Police said several cases were recently reported during which victims were defrauded out of more than R800 000.
According to Const Thomas Mogadime, the perpetrators advertise vehicles or other items on the internet and when the victim contacts them, they are requested to transfer the money before they can receive the item.
In some instances, the perpetrator will call the victim and act as a bank consultant.
“They will then ask the victim to switch off their cell phone. After a few minutes, the victim will notice transactions during which money was transferred via cell phone banking.
“We urge the public to be more vigilant, not to be tempted by the cheapest items sold on the internet and to report any suspicious activities to the police.”
He said cybercrime is a type of fraud or deception which makes use of the internet and can involve the hiding of information or providing incorrect information for the purpose of tricking victims out of money, property and inheritance.
Cybercrime is not considered a single, distinctive crime, but covers a range of illegal and illicit actions that are committed in cyberspace.
It is differentiated from theft since the victim voluntarily and knowingly provides the information, money or property to the perpetrator.
To report any form of crime, contact Bethal Police at 017 647 9929/30.
