What are the most important things to remember when dealing with possible scams?

Slow down if you feel pressured, never share PINs/passwords/OTPs, verify requests using official channels, and report suspicious activity as soon as possible.

Why do scammers create urgency or panic?

Urgency is used to stop you from thinking clearly, so you follow instructions quickly without verifying the request.

What information should I never share with anyone?

Never share your banking app password, card PIN, or OTP codes. Also avoid sharing sensitive personal information unless you are sure who you’re dealing with.

What should I do if I think I’ve been scammed?

Stop all communication immediately, secure your account, and report the incident through Capitec’s official support or fraud reporting channels.

Stay ahead of scammers this year

Watch out for scammers who are coming up with new ways to trick you out of your money.

The start of a new year is the perfect time to build better money habits. But while you’re planning ahead, scammers are doing the same – finding new ways to trick people into paying, clicking or investing without thinking clearly. A few simple habits can help you stay one step ahead.

Use the following tips to protect your money in 2026:

Shop smart: Buying or selling on Marketplace? Never pay upfront for items you haven’t seen in person. Scammers often disappear once they’ve been paid. If you’re selling, always confirm that the money is in your account before handing over your item
Click with care: Scammers use fake messages and lookalike websites to trick you into clicking links. Only tap or click on links from verified brands and only download apps through official app stores
Pause before you pay: Urgent requests to pay are a red flag. If a deal feels rushed, unexpected or ‘too good to be true,’ take a moment to stop and think
Invest wisely: Be cautious of any investment that promises quick, guaranteed high returns. Real investments carry risk and anyone guaranteeing fast profits is likely a scammer

Stay scam smart all year

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