Fraud complaints are received by the station on a daily basis. “People are being conned by individuals posing as carpenters, tilers, painters and landscapers. The public is warned to deal with reputable individuals who have been referred to them by a family member or friend or a registered contractor to deal with home repairs,” said communications officer, Captain Louise Le Roux.
Other complaints relate to items purchased via online shopping sites. “Some individuals pay the full price of an item without viewing the product first. Electronic goods, such as mobile phone, iPads, exotic birds, cats, dogs and second-hand vehicles are very popular. People are urged not to make payment until they have viewed the item.”
Contact the nearest Receiver of Revenue office to confirm if the company is registered and does exist. “You can also consult your telephone directory to confirm existence of a business, or contact your local police station and consult with their fraud specialists to confirm if any cases have been registered against an individual or company.”
– erinh@dbn.caxton.co.za
