Eskom warns users against illegal electricity sales scammers

Eskom has alerted the public about a recent increase in illegal electricity sales scams doing the rounds on social media. According to the power utility, these scams deceive customers by offering fake prepaid vouchers at discounted rates sold online.

In a statement, Eskom says that it has been made aware that once payment is made to the fraudulent website, often through electronic funds transfer (EFT) services at major supermarkets, the scammers disappear with the money, and no credit tokens are received.

“In some cases, the scammers even impersonate the Eskom brand to deceive unsuspecting customers.”

The power utility says it is working closely with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s (DPCI) Serious Economic Offences Unit to investigate and address these scams.

How to make sure you are buying real Eskom recharge credits

Eskom has reminded its customers that any discounted electricity offers on social media are fraudulent and illegal.

“If you are offered ‘discounted electricity’ anywhere, you are being scammed and you are buying ‘illegal’ electricity from an illegal vendor.”

The power utility has urged customers to remain cautious and only purchase electricity through authorised channels.

It has reiterated that all legitimate sales can be made at their nearest retail outlets such as Shoprite, Boxer, Usave, Pick ‘n Pay, filling stations, banking apps, or recognised electricity vendors.

For a list of authorised vendors, please visit the following link: https://www.eskom.co.za/distribution/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024123Vending-outlets.xlsx

“Eskom is deeply concerned about these illegal activities, as they not only defraud customers of their hard-earned money but also compromise the integrity of the electricity distribution system.”

Eskom has encouraged its customers and members of the public to come forward with any information related to unlawful activities, including illegal electricity sales, fraud, theft of coal, fuel oil, diesel, and critical and essential infrastructure crimes.

Reports can be made anonymously through the Eskom Crime Line at 0800 11 27 22 or via WhatsApp at 081 333 3323.