Nedbank Warns South Africans of Rising Smartphone Scams and Fake Fraud Calls

South African smartphone users have become prime targets in a surge of digital scams and theft, with Nedbank issuing a strong warning to its app users amid increasing reports of fraudulent calls and mobile phone theft.

According to Nedbank, criminals are impersonating officials from the bank, the South African Police Service (SAPS), SARS, or customs to trick people into moving money or disclosing sensitive information. These scam calls often come with fake urgency, warning that customers need to act quickly or face serious consequences.

How These Scams Work

The fraudsters may:

• Claim to be from Nedbank’s fraud department or other official bodies

• Urge customers to transfer money to a “safe” account

• Ask victims to install an app from a link sent via WhatsApp, email, or SMS

• Request secret details like Nedbank ID login, PIN, card CSC, or expiry date

Nedbank says customers should hang up immediately and never share personal or banking information. If you’re unsure, contact Nedbank directly at 0800 110 929 to verify the legitimacy of the request.

“If someone says something terrible will happen unless you act fast, it’s likely a scam,” the bank warned.

Phone Theft on the Rise in SA

Beyond scam calls, Nedbank also highlighted the rising danger of smartphone theft. Criminals are targeting digital devices because of their high value and access to personal data and banking apps.

Recent data from SAPS shows:

• Over 189 cell phones are stolen daily

• Between April 2017 and March 2023, 412,998 phones were reported stolen

• Gauteng (29%), Western Cape (26%), and KwaZulu-Natal (20%) lead in phone theft cases

Nedbank urged customers to be extra vigilant in public, reminding users to secure their phones and only download apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

The Broader Threat: A National Fraud Spike

Nedbank isn’t the only bank sounding the alarm. Other major institutions, including Standard Bank and Capitec, are also flagging growing fraud trends:

Standard Bank:

• Warns about Card-Not-Present (CNP) fraud, often triggered by targeted online ads

• Notes rising threats from food delivery apps, e-hailing platforms, and streaming services

• Advises caution with instant EFT or PayShap payments, which are irreversible

Capitec:

• Reports a wave of scams in 2025, including:

  • Authorised push payment fraud

  • Ponzi and investment scams

  • Courier scams

• Highlights how investment fraud is increasing as South Africans look for quick ways to beat the high cost of living

Stay Safe: What You Can Do

• Never share your banking login details, card information, or PIN

• Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown apps

• Be cautious of unusual requests to transfer money, especially under pressure

• Keep your smartphone locked and secured

• Report suspicious activity immediately

Final Thoughts

As South Africa’s digital economy grows, so too do the risks. Criminals are adapting fast, using technology and social engineering to target ordinary citizens. Nedbank’s warning is a timely reminder that staying alert and informed is your best defense.

{Source: BusinessTech}

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