Conned with a click

As technological gadgets become obsolete every day, new products continue to flood the market. And with this ever changing evolvement comes a diversified and sophisticated online criminal network.

Last week an out of town internet buyer was conned with a high price tag of R35 000 after buying two Nyala ewes from a false business premises in Richards Bay.

Securing the deal online, down payment was made for the pair of ewes reportedly located at a game farm in the commercial hub of Richards Bay.

The purchaser, unfamiliar with the local street address and the going price for Nyala ewes, was lured into a scam like so many South Africans daily.

Once the money has been deposited, all contact is lost with the seller.

With online banking and shopping the preferred and easier option, it also becomes a popular hotspot for con artists, looking to make a quick buck and then immediately disappearing from the digital sphere.

People searching for vehicles, products and accommodation should be especially wary of parting with money online and paying deposits for goods they have only seen in photos.

Shoppers are often tempted to pay upfront but one needs to do their homework thoroughly before buying online.

If the prospective game farmer had double checked the address with police, he would have discovered that 188 Dollar Drive did not exist and that the Bay CBD would not be a suitable location for the advertised game farm.

If the buyer compared prices, he would have also figured out that Nyala ewes are normally sold in groups at game auctions and average around R6 500 each and not R35 000 each.

Vigilant

Consumers need to be extra vigilant and should not part with banking and personal details online.

Unscrupulous suspects are online daily luring shoppers with ridiculous bargains and are ever so ready to clean victims’ bank accounts.

Be cautious when advertising on popular online classifieds sites and do not be duped by amazing deals.

When arranging a meeting to view cars and goods, ensure that it is in a safe and public place to avoid succumbing to further criminal activity.

Criminals have diversified their modus operandi and are doing their homework. Online shoppers need to up their game.

When in doubt, contact the nearest police station and double check information. A simple task of verifying details could save you from losing thousands of rands in the end.