Community and education
Safe online: one page to keep by the phone
From ASi Imperium's free community sessions. Print it, share it, stick it on the fridge.
The one rule: your bank, SARS, SASSA and the police will never ask for your PIN, password or one-time PIN (OTP). Anyone who asks is a criminal, however official they sound.
"This is your bank's fraud department"
Hang up. Call the number on the back of your bank card yourself. Never use a number the caller gives you, and never move money to a "safe account".
"Hi Mom, this is my new number"
Before sending any money, call your child or grandchild on the number you already have. Real family will understand.
A WhatsApp code you did not ask for
Never forward a six-digit code, even to a friend's number. It lets someone take over your WhatsApp and message everyone you know.
A voice that sounds exactly like family
Computer programs can now copy a voice from a short recording. Agree a family code word. A copied voice will not know it.
Too good to be true
Guaranteed returns, a prize you never entered, or a new online friend who needs money urgently: these are scams. Talk to someone you trust first.
Links in SMS and email
Do not tap them. Open your bank's app or type the address yourself. A real message will still be there.
Set up today
- WhatsApp: Settings, Account, Two-step verification, turn on.
- Banking app: turn on transaction notifications.
- Phone: a screen lock only you know.
If it has already happened
- Call your bank's fraud line at once: the number is on your card.
- Change your banking and email passwords.
- Report it at your nearest police station and keep the case number.
- It is not your fault. These criminals are professionals.
Questions, or want a free session for your group? ASi Imperium · 075 347 3367 · asitechnologies.co.za/community