Cape Town, a picturesque coastal city in South Africa, has been targeted by a wave of electricity scams that have left many residents vulnerable. The City of Cape Town has issued warnings to its citizens about two new scams that involve fraudulent electricity units and fake officials attempting to gain entry into homes. As a responsible citizen, it is essential to be aware of these scams and take necessary precautions to protect oneself and the community.

The First Scam

One of the scams involves fraudsters offering cheaper electricity units that do not work with the City’s meters. Many people may be tempted by the prospect of a good deal, but it is important to remember that if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. By avoiding such offers, one can protect themselves from the financial loss that will inevitably follow.

The Second Scam

The second scam targets vulnerable senior citizens. Scammers visit elderly residents’ homes, claiming they need to scan their prepaid meters to provide a rebate on their electricity. This tactic is used to gain access to homes and steal small personal items such as jewelry and cash. Elderly residents, in particular, should be cautious of any unsolicited visits from individuals who claim to be City officials or contractors.

How to Minimize the Risk

To minimize the risk of falling victim to these scams, the City of Cape Town offers some helpful advice. The City’s Electricity Generation and Distribution Department always makes an appointment with residents before visiting their homes. Municipal workers and contractors are required to carry a work order number specific to the dwelling, as well as a valid City-issued identification card.

Residents should always ask to check the work order number and identification card before allowing anyone onto their property. The identification card must display the City logo, the staff member or mandated contractor’s name and surname, and an embedded photo of the individual. If in doubt, residents are urged to call the City’s Call Centre at 0860 103 089 to verify the legitimacy of the card and visitor.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

It is also essential to report any suspicious behavior to the City’s law enforcement agencies, the City’s Fraud Hotline at 0800 1100 77, or the South African Police Service (SAPS), which remains the lead authority in crime prevention.

In conclusion, residents of Cape Town must remain vigilant and cautious when dealing with offers of cheap electricity units or unsolicited visits from people claiming to be City officials or contractors. By following the City’s guidelines and reporting suspicious activity, the community can work together to protect itself from the detrimental effects of these scams and ensure a safer, more secure living environment for all.