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Scams

You should be aware of and know the signs of opportunistic criminal activity on the internet

Cyber criminals are sending all sorts of scams online. Malicious websites and phishing attacks are now also benefitting from people working from home, many of whom face dire financial situations. Scammers are setting up fake charities, advertising fake products, spreading fake news and luring us with low interest loans or high return investments. The objectives of these attempts are to steal your money and/or access your personal information.

Spotting a scam

Be wary when you see:

Any message (e-mail, SMS or WhatsApp) trying to persuade you to transfer money to a beneficiary account number that is new or unfamiliar to you

An upfront request for advanced payment

Communication containing linguistic and grammatical errors (but not always)

Guaranteed high or quick returns – any ‘get rich quick’ promises

An e-mail address which you’re unsure about or doesn’t look exactly right

Any message which tries to pressure you to make a decision and act

Deterioration of Stock Insurance (DOS)

Electronic Equipment Insurance (EEI)

Business interruption following Electronic Equipment Insurance (EEI BI)

Seamless Project Insurance (SPI) 

Don't be fooled into thinking that:

Scammers will not use WhatsApp, because you can see their cell phone number

The scammers have a true concern for you as a person

Scammers will not try to use reputable brands like that of Santam

Responding to scams

If it sounds too good to be true, it is too good to be true.

Be very cautious of highly lucrative investment offers such as:

If anyone contacts you or if you receive an unexpected and unfamiliar message on email, SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook or LinkedIn, don’t respond. DON'T click on a link, open an attachment or provide any personal information.

Whenever you receive a link, don’t simply click on it. Rather visit the "real" website by doing a Google search or type the website name to check its authenticity.

Don’t trust anything you didn't expect, even if it looks like it comes from someone you know or trust. Verify the offer by using an alternative channel and alternative information.

If you need help or want to report a scam call Santams fraud line on 0860 600 767

 

Report a Scam or Fraud

We encourage our staff, clients and stakeholders to report unethical or corrupt behaviour. If you suspect fraudulent activity involving any of Santam’s companies or clients, you can confidentially report this.

Help and FAQ's

Fraud line

Tel: 0860 600 767

E-mail: forensic.services@santam.co.za

SAICB (South African Insurance Crime Bureau)

Tel: 0860 002 526

What should be reported?

- Criminal offences including fraud, theft, corruption and money laundering.

- Accounting, financial reporting and other irregularities.

- Fraudulent policy/investment applications.

- Theft of company assets.

- Fraudulent misrepresentation by Financial Advisers, Brokers, employees and contractors.

Why should I report fraud?

Unethical conduct, at any level, ultimately hurts Santam and its stakeholders including you. We all have the right to work in a safe, ethical working environment and have a responsibility to our stakeholders to assure that happens.

 

We all have the right to work in a positive fraud-free environment and with that right, comes the responsibility of acting in an ethical manner and letting the appropriate people know if someone is not acting appropriately. By working together, we can maintain a healthy and productive environment.

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