Vodacom has warned about the latest scam doing the rounds impersonating their summer campaign. The scam involves sending an SMS to potential victims with claims about prizes won in the summer campaign, whereafter the victim is requested to buy a recharge voucher and share a code.

These types of scams are common, impersonating trusted brands and their promotional campaigns or rewards programmes, and always evolving to further entice you, so it's important to remain vigilant. The aim is to trick individuals into clicking on malicious links embedded in the message or online ad, buying vouchers, or sharing information that gives scammers access to your accounts.

Here is what Vodacom has shared with us:

The scam

Vodacom has advised that consumers are being targeted with a smishing scam (SMS message) imitating their campaigns or rewards programmes. The scam message below is an example of such a message:

"Vodacom v-up Summer! Rewards you with a Brand new Samsung galaxy S24 ultra 5G +R5 000 Shopping Grocery voucher+R30 000 in cash! Ref 5237543885 Pin 26** You have 70% On our promo draw system redeem your creditors Vodabucks with 30% Within 30 minutes of Activation you will receive an SMS with your full pin.to <malicious link> opt out, reply STOP. Ts&Cs Vodacom: Welcome! Ready to V-Up with VodaBucks and stand to win cash and rewards daily? Dial *133# or visit VodaPay <malicious link>."

This is then followed by a request to buy a recharge voucher and share the pin/ OTP code.

Official sources

You can find out more via Vodacom Help and Support - Scams and hoaxes: https://help.vodacom.co.za/personal/subtopics/55/Mysecurity/358/Scams-&-hoaxes

VodaPay Rewards: https://vodapay.vodacom.co.za/vodapay/personal/rewards

Stay safe

Vodacom or your cellular company will never ask you to share your personal information, OTP (One Time Pin), or ask you to buy recharge vouchers to redeem prizes.

Tips:

• Do not click on links in unsolicited messages.
• Verify the legitimacy of these offers with the company directly via their official channels.
• Do not share any personal information.
• Do not share OTPs (One Time Pins) or approve prompts on your cell phone.

Always exercise caution when it comes to promotional messages sent from suspicious or unverified sources.

Report it

• Report the incident to your cellular provider.
• Report the incident to us via our website or the hotline on 083 123 SCAM (7226).

Stop. Think. Verify. Don't get scammed!