The Sol Plaatje Municipality in Kimberley is once again warning ratepayers about a WhatsApp scam in which fraudsters claim to be employees of the municipality, threatening disconnections for unpaid accounts.

These fraudsters contact residents claiming to be from the municipality’s Electricity or Water Department. They threaten immediate disconnection of services due to “unpaid accounts” or “meter tampering” and demand urgent payment to avoid it.

In a press statement, Thabo Mothibi of the municipality’s Communication Unit said residents must be aware of red flags when receiving such messages.

These red flags include:

• threats of instant disconnection within minutes or hours;
• demanding payment via mobile apps such as CashSend, eWallet, and Instant Money, or EFT to personal accounts or mobile phone airtime;
• requesting card details, PINs, or OTPs; and
• using WhatsApp or unknown mobile numbers instead of official municipal channels.

Legitimate payment options

The Sol Plaatje Municipality emphasises the legitimate payment options for service delivery as follows:

• designated pay points: Pay at authorised municipal pay points;
• official bank account: Make payments into the municipality’s official bank account; and
• Easypay Online: Use Easypay Online at www.solplaatje.online

It is also emphasised that the Sol Plaatje Municipality will never demand payment over the phone to avoid disconnection; ask for banking details, card PINs, or OTPs; request payment in vouchers or to a personal bank account; and disconnect services without issuing official written notices first.

What to do if targeted

When residents receive such communication, they must not pay or share any personal information, and they must end the conversation immediately. It is best to verify your account by visiting the Customer Care Centre, dialling 053 838 1000, or visiting the offices at the Civic Centre in Kimberley.

It is also important to report the incident to the police on 10111 or at the municipal Call Centre on 080 122 9010.

“We urge all residents, especially the elderly and vulnerable, to remain vigilant and warn neighbours and family members. Please stay vigilant when receiving requests for payments. Let us work together to stop these criminals,” Mothibi concluded.

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