Impersonation Scams Surge Across South Africa: What You Need to Know and How to Stay Safe

As impersonation scams continue to rise across South Africa, both consumers and businesses are being urged to stay alert. Criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, using fear and urgency to convince people to hand over money or personal details.

In 2024, the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) reported a 32% increase in fraud cases, with digital banking fraud accounting for 45% of incidents. This type of fraud has led to a 47% spike in financial losses—a worrying trend that’s not slowing down in 2025.

A Closer Look at Recent Scams

iTOO Special Risks, a specialist insurer, has seen a sharp rise in impersonation-related claims. According to Laykin Abrahams, claims specialist at iTOO, three recent cases alone cost clients a combined R589,000.

“In one case, scammers pretended to be police officers and told the insured there was a warrant for their arrest. They demanded bail money via EFT—R183,000 was paid,” she explains.

In other examples:

• A victim joined what appeared to be a legitimate WhatsApp investment group, only to lose R344,000.

• Another was tricked into transferring R62,000 to a “secure account” after receiving a fake call from someone posing as a bank employee.

These scams use realistic documents, urgent language, and emotional manipulation to pressure victims.

How These Scams Work

Impersonation scams often involve:

• Fake calls or emails from supposed banks, police, or SARS

• Threats of arrest or financial penalties

• Requests for urgent payments or sensitive details

• Professional-looking documents created using basic editing tools

Scammers target trust and fear—posing as authority figures and making the situation feel urgent so that victims act before thinking.

Tips to Avoid Falling Victim

According to Abrahams and fellow iTOO claims specialist Sadiyah Mather, verification is key.

“Never transfer money just because someone online tells you to. Go in person to your bank to confirm if there’s a problem,” Abrahams advises.

Mather adds:

“The SAPS will never serve arrest warrants over the phone. They don’t request bail money via EFT. Always do your own checks and get a second opinion before acting.”

Remember These Red Flags:

• You’re asked for your PIN or OTP over the phone

• Someone demands money urgently for bail, taxes, or security

• You’re told to join a WhatsApp group for quick investment returns

• You’re pressured not to speak to anyone else about the situation

Don’t Be Rushed—Be Smart

Fraudsters rely on fear, urgency, and confusion. By staying calm and verifying the facts, you can avoid becoming a victim. If something feels off, pause, verify, and if in doubt, walk into your bank or contact the real organisation directly.

{Source: IOL}

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