Fraud is a major challenge for governments worldwide. More nations are dealing with corruption, which can be found at most economic levels.
There are now more ways to report fraud in South Africa.
Cybercrime
Cybercrime means illegal acts, the commission of which involves the use of information and communication technologies.
To report cybercrime, contact the SAP Crime Stop Tip off line: 0860 010 111.
Crimeline
This is a Primedia initiative for making anonymous tip-offs to the SAPS.
Visit www.crimeline.co.za
Corruption Watch
If you are concerned about fraud you can report corrupt activity to the Public Protector. The website provides links to help for problems with:
- Prison
- Land claims
- Police
- Pension funds
- School
- Your employer
- Magistrate, judge, prosecutor
- Banking, insurance and retail
You can report fraud in South Africa, by simply visiting the Corruption Watch website.
IRS
The IRS is the organisation in charge of Forensic investigations of Financial Fraud in South Africa. The organisation works closely with the South African Police Service to investigate various forms of financial fraud.
In 2014, a study found that South African companies experience more fraud and bribery than their counterparts elsewhere in the world.
Economic crime is a big challenge for government, business leaders and other citizens in South Africa.
Visit www.irsa.co.za to report financial fraud.
Phishing scams at SARS
The infiltration of technology in the African market has made it easier for people to fall victim to a range of scams. One of the most popular scams is phishing.
Phishing has made it easier for fraudsters to gain access to individuals’ tax information and scam them into sending their banking details.
Keep an eye out for vague or generic subject lines. Beware of subject lines such as “free to look” or “private”. Emails written in CAPS LOCK can indicate spam. Emails that appear too enthusiastic are often a sign of a scam.
To report such fraud, you can send an email to: phishing@sars.gov.za
When forwarding an email to authorities, ensure that the email header you include contains valuable information.