SAPS warns members of the community with regard to continuous online scams, whereby perpetrators prey on their victim via online advertisements. Investigation reveals that the majority of victims deposit a large sum of cash and buy an advertised item that has been published on social media platforms, only to discover that the seller does not exist.
Members of the public are therefore requested to be aware of cyber criminals who target online payment platforms and online marketplaces to steal victims’ money and to ensure the credibility of the seller before they can purchase any advertised item.
While some scammers will just publish an advertisement so that you can pay money directly to them, others will be less obvious. They will try to trick you into giving them personal information they can use to: get access to your finances and steal your identity. Beware and be safe.
