malvernmugadzikwa
Online Reporter
Zimbabwe has recorded increased cybercrimes committed through social media, particularly the WhatsApp messaging platform, the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) has said.
In a statement on Thursday, Potraz said there was a notable increase in identity theft through social media accounts.
The authority said there were growing fraudulent digital transactions.
“Potraz hereby warns the public of impersonation (identity theft) attempts that are on the increase, especially through social media accounts, predominantly WhatsApp,” said Potraz.
“It has come to the attention of Potraz that foreign registered subscriber numbers are used on WhatsApp displaying the profile picture of known public figures being impersonated and as a result, the scammers are prejudicing unsuspecting members of the public of large amounts of money.”
Potraz urged the public to be on the lookout for foreign or local numbers that add them to groups or send unsolicited messages.
“The public is further warned to desist from engaging in financial transactions or disclose confidential information to people whose identity is not verified,” it said.
Online Reporter