Residents are asked to be vigilant and aware of a scam in which money is sought from City customers in order to escape alleged water restrictions/disconnections due to nonpayment.
The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate has warned that this is a scam. Residents should report any suspicious activity or requests to the City and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Also read: Breakthrough: ANC and DA reach agreement after intense talks
The City has been made aware of a new fraud in which a scammer contacts a City client (by phone or WhatsApp) and claims to be from the Water and Sanitation Directorate.
They then supply the required property information, indicating that the water to the property will be terminated immediately due to the municipal account being overdue.
The consumer is then informed that in order to avoid water supply termination and the accompanying reconnection cost, a payment in excess of R2 000 must be made via cash transfer or e-wallet.
At least two distinct incidences of this nature were reported to the City, affecting consumers in Parklands and Durbanville with current municipal accounts.
Find you perfect set of wheels with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings here.
Report any suspicious conduct to the City’s law enforcement agencies, the City’s Fraud Hotline (0800 1100 77), or the South African Police Service. SAPS continues to be the leading authority in crime prevention.
Customers are encouraged to make use of the various City communication channels to verify any communication they receive from the City:
- Phone: 0860 103 089
- SMS: 31373 (maximum 160 characters, free SMSs do not apply)
- WhatsApp: 060 018 1505
- Email: [email protected]
- To log a service request (often called a C3 request)
- Online: www.capetown.gov.za/servicerequests
‘We appeal to residents to be extra vigilant and rather verify any suspicious correspondence that they receive directly with the City. We are particularly concerned about customers who do find themselves in arrears with their municipal accounts that would easily be lured to make payments, to avoid their water from being disconnected or restricted. ‘said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation Zahid Badroodien.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price? Get exclusive offers here.
Also read:
Picture: Sara Kurfeß / Unsplash