“One of the ways in which the scammers operate is by means of requesting an upfront payment or seeking quotations for various goods from potential service providers.
“At times, they send a fictitious request for quotation (RFQ) from what would seem to be a Correctional Services email address, use a fake RFQ form with a logo and contact details of the contact person,” the statement read.
The requests, the department said, are usually “urgent” and the whole process is concluded within a short period.
“The department distances itself from this practice and advises all suppliers not to render services telephonically, without having the original purchasing order.
“No upfront payments are to be requested. Rather confirm the legitimacy of purchasing orders with the department’s supply chain unit, prior to processing and purchasing goods,” the department added. – SAnews.gov.za