Scammers Targeting Residents with New Electricity Scams

by
1 min read
s c

As technology progresses, scammers are also finding new ways to trick unsuspecting residents, particularly the elderly, with their fraudulent schemes. Recently, two new electricity scams have emerged, which residents must be aware of to avoid falling victim to these ploys.

The First Scam: Sale of Counterfeit Electricity Units

The first scam involves the sale of counterfeit electricity units. Scammers sell these units at low prices, which can be tempting for residents looking to save money. However, purchasing these units can have dire consequences. To avoid being a victim of this scam, residents should only purchase legitimate electricity units at the correct price per unit.

The Second Scam: Criminals Posing as City Officials

In the second scam, criminals pose as city officials or contractors to gain access to homes. Once inside, they steal small personal items, with senior citizens being the primary targets. Scammers use common pretenses, such as claiming that they need to scan a prepaid meter to provide a rebate on electricity, to gain entry into homes under false pretenses.

Protecting Oneself from These Deceptive Practices

To protect oneself from these deceptive practices, residents must be vigilant and verify the credentials of any individual claiming to be a city official or contractor. The City’s Electricity Generation and Distribution Department always schedules an appointment before visiting a home. Municipal workers and contractors must carry a work order number specific to the dwelling and a legitimate City-issued identification card.

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

If residents notice any suspicious behavior, they must report it immediately to the City’s law enforcement agencies, the City’s Fraud Hotline at 0800 1100 77, or the South African Police Service (SAPS), which is the leading authority in crime prevention.

Summary: Tips to Protect from Electricity Scams

Residents must follow the following tips to safeguard themselves from electricity scams:

  1. Only buy legitimate electricity units at the correct price per unit.
  2. Be aware that pensioner support qualification requires submitting an application form.
  3. Always verify the work order number when an official visits your home.
  4. Check the official’s City-issued identification card.
  5. Ensure the ID card displays the City logo, the name and surname of the staff member or mandated contractor, and contains an embedded photo of the individual.
  6. If unsure, call the City’s Call Centre at 0860 103 089.
  7. Report suspicious behavior to the City’s law enforcement agencies or the SAPS.

By staying informed and alert, residents can protect themselves and their homes from these fraudulent schemes. Education and awareness are the best defenses against scammers and their ever-evolving tactics.

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

s o
Previous Story

Uniting South Africa through Geographical Names: A Capacity Building Workshop

substance abuse addiction
Next Story

Nadine Denies Substance Abuse Accusations Against Boyfriend Derick Hougaard

Latest from Blog

racism slavery

A Disturbing Incident: Recollection of Slavery in a High School Incident

Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.

ireland vfs global

The Evolving Global Travel Landscape: A New Chapter for South African and Botswana Nationals

South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.

electric fence south africa

“Spearheading Safety: South Africa’s Revised Electric Fence Regulations”

South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.

homelessness cape town

The Unfolding Homelessness Crisis in Cape Town’s Central Business District

The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.

south africa democracy

Examining the Path of Democracy: South Africa’s Transformation Over Thirty Years

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the need for scientific and evidencesupported strategies to handle socioeconomic complexities, identified key issues integral to the nation’s developmental dialogue, including countering the impacts of climate change, capitalizing on the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and supporting peace initiatives on the continent. The conference reflected on the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of a nation striving to uphold principles of justice, equality, and social transformation.