While the country attempts to deal with the real public health issue posed by coronavirus COVID-19, criminals are using this often confusing time to try and scam South Africans.
Here are 3 coronavirus scams to watch out for:
1. Phishing scams. The South African Banking Risk Information Centre (SABRIC) has warned about criminals attempting to scam people with phishing scams (where criminals try and gain access to your security information). SABRIC has warned that, “These new scams include spoofed emails offering products such as masks, or fake offerings of vaccines, leading to phishing websites. These emails come from seemingly realistic and reputable companies which manipulate people into clicking on links. Some of these websites prompt the user for personal information which ending up in the hands of cybercriminals.
Cybercriminals are also using SMS Phishing, more commonly known as SMishing, to trick victims into clicking on a link disguised as information on a Coronavirus breakout in their area to steal their credentials. Some of these texts claim to provide free masks or pretend to be companies that have experienced delays in deliveries due to the Coronavirus.”
11 tips to avoid social media scams
https://twitter.com/Sabric/status/1240176679605190656
Interpol has also warned of fake websites claiming to be selling medical supplies
https://twitter.com/INTERPOL_HQ/status/1239923426866925569?s=20
SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about SA government’s response to COVID-19
2. Reserve Bank/cash scam. The South African Reserve Bank has warned that are individuals attempting to steal from people under the guise of being from the Reserve Bank and collecting contaminated cash.
https://twitter.com/SAReserveBank/status/1239601003038720008
https://twitter.com/SAReserveBank/status/1239601000324968449
3. Home screening scam. There are individuals claiming to be from the Department of Health and/or National Institute of Communicable Diseases and/or Netcare 911 group and knocking on people’s doors claiming to be doing home screening. South Africa is not doing any home screening, all tests are currently done at public or private laboratories.
https://twitter.com/Netcare911_sa/status/1239402984133611521
SEE ALSO: Frequently asked questions about coronavirus COVID-19
