A local security company in Brackenfell, Cape Town, C-MAX Armed Security Services, last week issued a stark warning to the public following a surge in scam phone calls from fraudsters falsely claiming to represent the company in an attempt to obtain personal information such as banking details, safety and security details as well as addresses.
Callers have been reported as acting aggressively and attempt to lure individuals by claiming they have “won” a R2 000 voucher, which they then insist on delivering in person.
According to reports, individuals across the country, including in Cape Town, Pretoria, and surrounding suburbs have been targeted by callers using private or withheld numbers.
“The scam, which has raised alarm bells due to its aggressive and persistent nature, is completely unaffiliated with the legitimate operations of C-MAX Armed Security Services,” says company director Carla Lourens-Ferreira. “We want to make it absolutely clear that C-MAX Armed Security has no connection whatsoever to this fraudulent scheme. We do not operate in this manner, and under no circumstances should anyone be handing over personal details, banking information, or allowing unknown individuals into their homes.”
Unrelated database used
Victims have reported that the callers appear to have access to certain personal information, including names, surnames, and cellphone numbers, which adds to the illusion of credibility.
“However, C-MAX has confirmed that none of the individuals contacted are current or past clients, and many do not even reside within the company’s operational areas. It seems clear that these scammers are using unrelated external databases to target unsuspecting members of the public,” Lourens-Ferreira added.
The company further stressed that all official communication from C-MAX will only come from their verified office number 021 201 6561, and that they do not use private numbers or request sensitive information over the phone.
She urges people to be vigilant.
“Should you receive a suspicious call, we urge you to hang up immediately and contact us directly on our official number,” Lourens-Ferreira said. “Your safety and privacy are of utmost importance, and we are deeply concerned about the tactics these scammers are using.”
