Durban — The uMhlathuze Municipality has warned its residents about a current scam.
In a Facebook post, the municipality said it has come to its attention that a scam is currently active.
“Scammers are contacting residents, claiming they will disconnect their electricity within the next two hours unless a payment of R2 000 is made via cash or e-wallet,” the municipality explained.
“The scammers have residents contact numbers and physical addresses, making the scam appear legitimate.”
The municipality urged residents to remain vigilant and not fall victim to the scam.
“If you receive such a call, do not make any payments and report the incident to the authorities immediately,” the municipality added.
Meanwhile, last month, the eThekwini Municipality warned customers about a spate of fraudulent activities involving individuals impersonating municipal employees.
The municipality said its Electricity Unit received reports of attempts to extort money from residents, with perpetrators claiming to represent the unit.
“It has come to our attention that customers are contacted and told that their municipal accounts are in arrears. These impersonators threaten disconnection of services unless immediate payment is made, thereby attempting to coerce residents into providing financial information or making payments directly to them,” the municipality said at the time.
The municipality explained that it was actively investigating these cases in collaboration with the police with a commitment to protecting residents from fraud and a determination to identify how these criminals are acquiring sensitive customer information.
It also reminded customers that legitimate municipal employees will never demand immediate payment over the phone or threaten disconnection without prior notice.
“Residents are encouraged to verify any claims made by individuals purporting to be municipal workers and to remain vigilant against potential scams,” the municipality said.
Residents who receive suspicious calls are urged to report these incidents immediately to the City’s Integrity & Investigations Unit at 0800 20 20 20 or via email at ombuds@durban.gov.za.
WhatsApp your views on this story at 071 485 7995.
Daily News