How to Report Financial Crime in South Africa
Cybercrime is rampant in South Africa, with millions lost yearly due to lack of a centralized reporting system. Citizens must report scams at local police stations, making data collection and action difficult. However, organizations like The Cybersecurity Hub, SABRIC, and the Police Economic Crime Unit are stepping up efforts to fight scams.
Scam Statistics in South Africa
According to the Global Anti Scam Alliance, online fraud in South Africa has seen significant growth:
- 2018: 27,928 scams, with €13.2 million lost
- 2019: 30,000 scams, with €79 million lost
- 2020: 90.4 million euros lost
Where to Report a Scam in South Africa
To report financial crime, individuals can contact:
National Police Force
The national police force’s Cybercrime Unit deals with cyber-related crimes.
Cybersecurity Hub
The country’s National Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) for reporting cyber incidents.
Banking Risk Information Centre
A non-profit organization providing information on banking risks and scams.
Economic Crime Unit
A specialized unit dealing with economic crimes.
Tips to Identify Scams
To avoid falling victim to financial crime, individuals should be cautious of:
- Too-good-to-be-true deals
- Lack of social media presence
- Poor website design and security
Getting Money Back from a Scammer
If you’ve been scammed, the first step is to ask for a refund. If dealing with scammers, the procedure varies depending on the payment method used. PayPal offers a strong chance of getting money back within 180 calendar days of purchase.
Reporting financial crime in South Africa requires cooperation and vigilance from citizens, organizations, and law enforcement agencies.