In light of recent scamming incidents, Cape Town residents are reminded that City of Cape Town municipal workers and electricity contractors must carry a legitimate city-issued identification card and a work order number specific to the home being visited.
The City of Cape Town’s Energy Directorate said it had recently been alerted again to scamming incidents in some areas of the metro.
Also read: Scam alerts: Cheaper-than-usual electricity units and City official posers
‘A scammer’s common approach is to convince a resident that they are checking electricity meters or carrying out surveys. Once the scammers gain your trust and access to your home, they steal personal items,’ said City’s MMC for energy, Beverley van Reenen.
In addition to carrying their City-issued ID cards and home-specific work order reference numbers, residents can also call the City’s call centre on 0860 103 089 to confirm the validity of the work order reference number prior to giving access to their properties.
Residents are also reminded to be vigilant and to report suspicious behaviour to the City and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
‘If they cannot produce the requested work order number or City-issued ID card, do not allow them into your home,’ emphasised van Reenen.
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The Energy Directorate’s quick tips for residents:
- Only buy legitimate electricity units at the correct price per unit.
- You may only qualify for pensioner support if you have applied by filling out a form.
- Always verify the work order number when an official visits your home.
- Check the official’s City-issued ID card.
- The City-issued ID card must display the City logo, the name and surname and an embedded photo of the staff member or mandated contractor.
- Notify the official that you will only allow access once you verify their identity with the City’s call centre.
- Report suspicious behaviour to the City’s law enforcement agencies or to the SAPS.
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Picture: Fani Mahuntsi / Gallo Images