Easter-related scams are everywhere, here’s how to stay safe
South Africans should beware of Easter-themed scams, including phishing messages, fake charity appeals, and too-good-to-be-true deals. Stay vigilant and follow precautions.
As the Easter holiday approaches, South Africans are gearing up for sales promotions and charitable giving.
However, scammers are also on the lookout, exploiting the festive mood to steal people's money.
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KnowBe4 Africa's senior vice president of content strategy, Anna Collard, warns that holiday-themed fraud continues to increase every year, preying on distracted shoppers and generous donors, reports My Broadband.
9 common Easter scams:
1. Fake Easter sales and giveaway websites
Too-good-to-be-true discounts on chocolates, gifts, or holidays.
2. Phishing messages disguised as delivery or bank alerts
Emails or SMSes about Easter transactions or parcel delays.
3. Bogus charity appeals
Fake NGOs requesting Easter donations.
4. Social media giveaways
"Win a chocolate hamper" scams asking for personal info or processing fees.
5. Too-cheap-to-be-real travel packages
Fraudulent holiday accommodation deals.
6. E-cards carrying malware
Greeting cards with malicious attachments or links.
7. Free trials with hidden subscription traps
"Easter-themed" services that auto-renew without notice.
8. Fake discount vouchers
Counterfeit coupons that circulate on WhatsApp and social media.
9. Spring-themed investment scams
Schemes promising "seasonal returns" or "growth boosters".
How to stay safe from scams this Easter
Be sceptical of unsolicited communications, especially when they demand urgent action.
Check sender email addresses and URLs (website links) for small spelling changes or mistakes.
Never share one-time passwords, PIN numbers, or any personal or financial information in response to unsolicited requests.
Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
Keep devices updated to ensure key security updates are applied.
Monitor bank accounts and credit reports regularly.
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4. Switch to the audio bouquet on your Openview decoder and browse to channel 606.
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