By OBAKENG MAJE
The police in Northern Cape urge the public to adhere and implement safety tips to protect themselves against scams and fraud. Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Sergio Kock said phishing and fraud scams are deceitful emails and messages criminals send, which promise large sums of money or even great prizes.
He further said community members should be careful and delete these messages. Kock added that, they should also remember if they have or have not entered any competition, so it is impossible to win these promised prizes.
“Be careful of investing or giving money to persons who claim they can double your money. These criminals are targeting persons, especially those who have received retirement lump sum pay-outs and large amounts of insurance cash.
“Never respond to emails or cell phone messages appearing to be from your bank, which request your personal details. Remember, no bank will ever ask you to confirm or update your account details by email,” he said.
He said community members should never provide their ID number, password, or PIN to anyone and never write them down or share them. Kock said community members should not save their Internet banking passwords on their desktops or cell phones.
“Do not leave your computer unattended after you have entered your internet banking password. Always log off or sign off at the end of a session. Avoid doing internet banking in public areas such as Internet Cafés, or on any computer that can be accessed by people you do not know.
“Change your PIN and passwords frequently. Put sensible transaction limits on your accounts. If it looks too good to be true, it usually is. Always be wary and extra careful when shopping online and never send money, credit card, or online account details to anyone you do not know and trust,” he said.
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