City of Cape Town warns residents to stay vigilant against festive housing scams

As the festive season approaches, the City of Cape Town is warning residents to be on high alert for scammers exploiting those waiting for housing opportunities. Each year, reports of fraud spike in November and December — and officials say this year is no different.

Fraudsters are using WhatsApp, SMS, and social media to trick residents into believing they’ve been approved for a City housing opportunity or can secure one for a fee. The City has stressed that it never asks for money or personal details over informal channels.

“The City wants to remind residents that we will never ask for money or personal details via WhatsApp, SMS, or social media — not for water, electricity, or housing,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Carl Pophaim. “Always pause and verify by phoning the City’s Call Centre.”

Pophaim urged residents to help expose scammers by reporting suspicious messages and refusing to share personal information. “Scammers often use fake letterheads or impersonate officials. If something feels off, double-check with the City,” he said.

Residents are urged to report scams immediately by calling the Fraud Hotline on 0800 1100 77, emailing fraud.hotline@capetown.gov.za, or contacting the City’s Call Centre on 0860 103 089. The Human Settlements Call Centre can also be reached on 021 444 0333 during business hours, Monday to Friday between 7:30 am and 4:30 pm. Beneficiaries are reminded to keep their housing registration details up to date via official City channels.

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Cape Argus