South Africans have been warned to be wary of scams on social media claiming to offer cheap flights, which are used by criminals to steal their data.
GoTyme Bank recently notified consumers about scams on platforms like Facebook and Instagram offering discounted flight tickets, which fraudsters use to gain access to the victim’s device and banking apps.
The bank’s head of operational risk and fraud, George Wandsella, said that criminals were targeting individuals on social media seeking affordable travel solutions.
He said that the scams typically begin with an advert on a social media site which, when tapped, requests the user’s name, cellphone number, email address, or other contact information.
A “consultant” will then contact the victim on WhatsApp and send a link for them to access while walking them through the process of downloading an app they claim will unlock cheap flight options.
This app is actually malware, which allows the scammer to access the victim’s device remotely. This allows them to view what is stored on the phone and even use apps like banking portals, letting them make unauthorized payments.
GoTyme urged consumers not to enter their details into flight ads that seem too good to be true, and to never download apps or files sent via WhatsApp from unknown sources.
“Don’t follow instructions from someone offering to help you install an app. Never share your PIN, password, or OTP. Never allow anyone to access your phone or share your screen,” said the bank.
If you have already downloaded a suspicious app, disconnect the device from Wi-Fi and mobile data immediately.
“Do a factory reset on the device. Then contact GoTyme Bank through our official channels using another trusted device,” it said.
Speeding fine scams making the rounds in South Africa
Another type of scam that has been going around the country in recent months involves messages informing motorists about speeding fines.
These false messages have increased following the implementation of the new Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act on 1 July 2026.
Criminals are attempting to take advantage of the confusion and uncertainty around the new traffic laws, which change the way speeding fines and other notices are handled.
The Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) warned that fraudsters were sending messages via SMS, WhatsApp, and email, claiming that individuals must urgently pay their traffic fines or face penalties.
They often have subject lines such as “Final Notice: Action Required to Avoid Additional Penalties” or “Final Demand: Enforcement Notices,” creating a sense of false urgency.
These messages typically link to a cloned payment platform where the scammers can steal the victim’s personal information.
“The RTIA emphasises that it is the only entity which is legally authorised to administer and process fines under the AARTO Act,” it said.
“Motorists are strongly advised to make payments only through verified and approved payment platforms.”
Individuals should always verify the message first by checking for a 16-digit infringement notice number issued by the RTIA.
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