By Mumtaz Moosa Saley
30:08:2022

Although the POPIA act should have us all covered, there is still an influx of scams and personal details being sold on the black market; one of the latest scams seems to have people losing large sums of money.

If you are due for a phone upgrade, this scam has you in its scope. Marketers will say they are calling from your service provider and will provide a list of options based on the company’s current specials. While it may seem easy and the best way to upgrade, please check before you sign up.

The person on the other side will proceed to let you know that the debit order has been sent to your bank and all you must do is approve it; most banks do not have the debit order check option, but if you do, I advise you to please have a look at it before you accept. People have reported that debit orders from the amount of R7000 upwards have been sent to them once they have tried to upgrade via phone call.

If the company is legit, they should be able to send you all the documents and prices you agree on via email.

You cannot be forced to make a split-second decision; always ask them to email the options for your consideration.

Always check the paperwork before agreeing to save yourself from the inconvenience and waste of time.