Fraud scams on the rise – Richards Bay police issue warning
'If you are asked to pay any sum of money to secure a job, you must be wary and must not transfer any funds
RICHARDS Bay SAPS are warning members of the public to avoid falling victim to money making schemes, paying for jobs, as well as for goods or products they have not seen.
This as citizens continue to be defrauded by opportunists who con them out of their hard-earned cash through various scams.
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According to police spokesperson Captain Debbie Ferreira, fraud and job scams remain a challenge as incidents are reported daily where residents fall victim to scams such as buying goods on the internet or on social media as well as being defrauded in ‘get rich quick’ schemes, or paying money upfront for the promise of job prospects.
‘We urge consumers to ensure they use reputable online shopping platforms to make purchases.’
Ferreira said it is disturbing to find that members of the public are willing to hand over their money to people who claim to promise employment.
‘A company or business will never ask you to pay money for a job or request you to pay for uniforms or other items before confirming your employment.’
This warning comes as detectives are swamped with cases from people who have been swindled out of large sums of money by con artists.
‘Many buyers responding to vehicles for sale adverts have also been scammed; they are requested to deposit funds to secure the deal but then the seller cannot be reached after payment has been made.
‘Such scams are rife, and offers that look too good to be true, often are.
‘Police have noted with concern several hoax messages containing fake job adverts circulating on social media and other channels, and we urge job seekers to be wary of these fake job listings and not to fall prey to this scam.
‘If you are asked to pay any sum of money to secure a job, you must be wary and must not transfer any funds,’ said Ferreira.
Members of the public are also reminded that employment at any company or governmental department is not for sale.
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