Common scams and how to spot them

Most scams follow a few patterns. Learn the warning signs below, or paste a suspicious message into the free checker.

Bank alert and OTP scams

A text or call says your account is blocked or suspended and asks you to "verify" through a link, or to read out a one-time PIN. Real banks never ask for your OTP, password or card security code. Look for links that contain the bank's name but end in something else, such as fnb-secure-verify.top.

Fake job and task offers

"No experience needed, earn R1,500 a day liking videos" or "rate hotels from home". The catch is a registration, training or uniform fee, or a deposit to "unlock" earnings. Real employers never charge you to start work, and rarely recruit only through WhatsApp or Telegram.

Parcel delivery fee scams

A message claims a courier such as DHL or the post office is holding your parcel until you pay a small customs or delivery fee. The link is usually shortened or leads to a look-alike site that steals card details. Check deliveries in the courier's official app or by typing their address yourself.

Gift card and crypto payment requests

Anyone who asks you to pay with gift cards, vouchers, Bitcoin or a money transfer service, especially someone you haven't met, is almost certainly a scammer. These payments can't be reversed or traced.

Romance and "stranded friend" scams

Someone you met online, or a "friend" on a new number, suddenly needs money for a ticket, a hospital bill or a visa. They often ask you to keep it secret. Call the person on a number you already know before sending anything.

Fake tech support

A pop-up or caller says your computer is infected and asks you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer or similar so they can "fix" it. Once in, they empty accounts. Microsoft, Apple and banks never call you out of the blue to fix your device.

Investment and "guaranteed returns" scams

Promises to double your money, guaranteed returns or 30% a month are the signature of investment fraud and Ponzi schemes. Real investments carry risk and are offered by registered providers you can verify.

Overpayment scams when selling online

A buyer "accidentally" pays more than your asking price and asks you to send back the difference. The original payment later bounces or is reversed. Only release goods once money has cleared in your own banking app.

Been targeted?

Stop contact, don't send more money, and call your bank on the number on the back of your card. Report the incident to your local police or fraud reporting service. You can also flag the website or number to warn others.