Falling victim to a scam can cost people a lot of money and cause great distress.
This is according to Bramley Police Station spokesperson Captain Molefe Mogodi, who recently shared tips to help residents protect themselves against scams.
“Phishing and fraud scams are methods of deceitfully obtaining personal information such as passwords, identity numbers and credit card details by calling or sending emails or cellphone messages that look like they come from trusted sources, such as banks or legitimate companies.
“Typically, these emails or cellphone messages request that users click on a link in the email, which will direct users to a spoofed website – a site designed to fool users into thinking that it is legitimate – to obtain, verify or update contact details or other sensitive financial information.”
Mogodi noted the following tips that may help residents avoid falling victim to scams and fraud:
- Never respond to emails or cellphone messages appearing to be from your bank, which requests your personal details. Remember that no bank will ever ask you to confirm or update your account details by phone
- Never provide your online ID, password or pin to anyone and never write them down or share them
- Do not save your internet banking password on your desktop
- Do not leave your computer unattended after you have entered your internet banking password
- Always log off or sign off at the end of an internet banking session
- Change your pin and password frequently
- Put sensible transaction limits on your accounts and only provide your credit card details to reputable companies
- If you take a call or receive any communication from your bank, assume it is fraudulent until you have established it is not. Fraudsters will claim to be from the bank and their aim is to make you fear for your savings and act illogically.
Details: 011 445 4113
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