The City of Johannesburg has issued a strong warning to residents, businesses and account holders to remain vigilant as criminal syndicates continue to target municipal customers with fraudulent schemes disguised as official City communication.
These scams involve individuals posing as City officials, debt collectors, electricity technicians, meter readers or revenue agents to solicit money, steal personal information or gain unlawful access to homes and businesses.
Common Scams Reported:
- Fake disconnection threats demanding immediate EFT payments to avoid electricity or water cut-offs
- Impersonation of City officials using forged ID cards, uniforms or vehicle markings to request property access
- False SMS notifications claiming outstanding debt and directing customers to non-City banking details
- Fake meter replacement or inspection visits used to collect “call-out fees” or gain entry into homes
- Email phishing scams using City logos to trick customers into clicking harmful links or providing account details
Important Reminders from the City:
- All legitimate payments must be made through official City of Johannesburg banking accounts or authorised platforms such as EasyPay, SA Post Office, Pick n Pay or www.joburg.org.za
- City officials never demand cash payments at your door
- Disconnection teams carry full identification, official job cards and branded vehicles, and will never request on-the-spot payments
- SMS messages from the City originate from verified platforms and will never include non-City bank account numbers
- Meter inspections and replacements are conducted only by authorised contractors with accreditation and job cards
How to Protect Yourself:
- Verify any communication by contacting the City’s 24/7 Call Centre on 0860 56 28 74
- Report suspicious account numbers, emails or SMS messages immediately
- Do not allow anyone into your property without proof of appointment and identification
- Cross-check City information on official digital channels, including the Joburg website and social media pages
- Register on e-Joburg to access your municipal statements and reduce reliance on third-party communication
Kgamanyane Maphologela, Director of Communications and Stakeholder Management, warned that criminal syndicates are misrepresenting themselves as City officials, issuing fake disconnection notices and circulating fraudulent banking details to deceive customers into making illegitimate payments.
“We urge all customers to remain alert, verify information and report any suspicious behaviour immediately. Protecting our community is a shared responsibility,” said Maphologela.
Reporting Fraud:
Residents can report fraud through any of the following channels:
- City of Johannesburg Anti-Fraud Hotline: 0800 002 587
- Joburg Call Centre: 0860 56 28 74
- Email: anti-fraud@joburg.org.za
- Nearest JMPD offices or SAPS station for criminal cases
No comments:
Post a Comment