Article re-cap
- The City of Cape Town has warned residents about fraudulent housing scams circulating on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.
- The City will never ask for payment to secure a housing opportunity at any stage of the process.
- Residents can report suspected scams via the Fraud Hotline on 0800 32 31 30 or at [email protected].
- The Human Settlements Call Centre is available on 021 444 0333 or 0860 103 089 on weekdays between 07:30 and 16:30.
- Beneficiaries must keep their housing registration details up to date through official City channels or housing offices.
The City of Cape Town Human Settlements Directorate has issued a warning to residents regarding fraudulent housing opportunity scams circulating on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.
Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Carl Pophaim, said the City is aware of scammers falsely claiming that residents can secure housing opportunities by making a payment.
Pophaim emphasised that the City will never ask for money to secure a housing opportunity and noted that no official process requires payment at any stage. He stated that city housing opportunities are entirely free, including placement on the Housing Needs Register, the allocation of opportunities, or associated housing services.
Residents are urged to refrain from making payments or sharing personal details with unfamiliar individuals on social media and communication networks. Beneficiaries must keep their housing registration up to date via official channels or City housing offices.
Residents who suspect a scam are encouraged to report it via the City's Fraud Hotline on 0800 32 31 30 or by emailing [email protected]. The Human Settlements Call Centre can be reached on 021 444 0333 or 0860 103 089 during business hours, Monday to Friday between 07:30 and 16:30.
Frequently asked questions
Will the City of Cape Town ever ask me for money to secure housing?
No. The City has stated it will never ask for money to secure a housing opportunity, and no official process requires payment at any stage. All city housing opportunities are entirely free, including placement on the Housing Needs Register, allocation of opportunities, and associated housing services.
What should I do if I receive a housing opportunity offer on WhatsApp or social media?
Be cautious. The City warns that scammers are falsely claiming residents can secure housing by making a payment. Residents should refrain from making payments or sharing personal details with unfamiliar individuals on social media and communication networks.
How should I keep my housing registration current with the City?
Beneficiaries must keep their housing registration up to date via official channels or City housing offices. Do not rely on social media communications for official housing matters.
Who issued this warning about housing scams?
The City of Cape Town Human Settlements Directorate issued the warning. Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Carl Pophaim, stated the City is aware of scammers falsely claiming residents can secure housing by making payments.
Source: magic828.co.za, techfinancials.co.za
