The South African Police Service (Saps) has urged students who are looking for accommodation for the new academic year to be cautious of bogus advertisements, especially online.
Western Cape Police Spokesperson FC van Wyk has cautioned students about paying electronic deposits into private bank accounts advertised on the internet.
Van Wyk says in most cases, the students pay the deposits, never to hear from the advertiser again.
“Some agencies have fake websites to make them appear to be professional. The public is encouraged to verify the credentials of the person advertising the accommodation and the legitimacy of the property advertised. If you come across a bogus advertisement, please report the matter to your local police so that the matter can be investigated.”
