Capetonians reminded to be aware of scammers threatening supposed water cuts

Capetonians are reminded to be aware of scammers posing as city officials soliciting payment from customers to avoid supposed water disconnections.
 
The municipality said scammers have been contacting city customers via telephone or WhatsApp since 2024, claiming to be from its Department of Water and Sanitation. 
 
They, then, provide the relevant property details and advise residents that their water will be disconnected immediately due to the municipal account being in arrears. 
 
Customers are then told to pay a reconnection fee via CashSend or e-wallet.

Water and Sanitation MMC Zahid Badroodien said the city will never request payment via these platforms.
 
"Our concern is especially for those customers who may be in arrears on their municipal accounts, and they are especially more vulnerable to these scams promising to prevent disconnections or any restrictions. Always be careful when sharing your personal information and always verify if you are uncertain."