Kwa-Thema SAPS concerned about internet fraud
Such cases are common and the method of operation is always similar.
Kwa-Thema – Kwa-Thema SAPS has received numerous complaints from residents who have been scammed on the internet.
According to Const Nkululeko Magudulela, communications officer at the police station, the fraudsters often pretend to be sellers of goods ranging from homes and cars to cellphones.
One of the incidents reported to Kwa-Thema SAPS involved a 26-year-old man who was looking to buy a car online.
“He came across an advert for a Toyota Tazz on a social media platform.
“He went through the ad and found that the “seller” had attached his contacts.
“The victim then called the number supplied and spoke to a gentleman and enquired about the vehicle.
Also read: Police warns about scammers
“The fraudulent seller informed the man the car is still available for sale and they agreed on a price of R14 500.
“The man was impressed and agreed to the seller’s price.
“The fraudulent seller then informed the man a deposit of R7 000 was required to secure the sale of the vehicle, to which he agreed,” said Magudulela.
It is alleged the victim then paid the deposit amount.
The two arranged to meet at Lakeside Mall in Benoni the following day.
When the man arrived at the meeting point, he called the seller.
“The seller told him the full amount should be paid before the car is released.
“The man protested and the fraudster told him it is to secure the car as it is an auction vehicle,” said Magudulela.
The man then became suspicious and the seller later stopped taking his calls.
In a similar incident, another victim was searching social media platforms with the hopes of buying herself an iPhone.
She found a page where an alleged seller was offering the phone she wanted to purchase.
“She sent the seller a private message.
“The seller then gave her a contact number so they could arrange payment and delivery.
“They agreed on a price of R3 700, which was paid into the seller’s account.
“When the woman wanted to enquire about delivery, she noticed she had been blocked by the fraudster,” explained Magudulela.
Also read: Scammers targeting unemployed youth
Such cases are common and the method of operation is always similar.
The fraudsters post a particular item for sale with their contact details.
After they identify potential buyers, they request a deposit in order to secure the item.
The seller then tries to convince the buyer to deposit even more money.
According to Magudulela, the fraudsters use phrases such as ‘security deposit on auction vehicles’.
“The public is urged to be vigilant, always do your research.
“Never be too eager and never pay for items you haven’t seen.
“Always trust your gut feeling. If it looks too good to be true, nine times out of 10 it is,” he added.
If you have fallen victim to a fraudulent seller, report the matter to your nearest police station.
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