Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) has warned the public of a scam in which an individual is masquerading as a ZMC accreditation agent and defrauding unsuspecting media practitioners, especially Zimbabweans based in South Africa.
In a statement, the commission said the scammer has been demanding payments of US$70 via Mukuru, falsely claiming the money would be used to process media accreditation cards on behalf of journalists.
ZMC said it does not use agents or representatives to collect accreditation fees through unofficial or unorthodox channels.
“The Zimbabwe Media Commission condemns in the strongest possible terms these despicable acts, which are designed to take advantage of vulnerable individuals,” read the statement.
The commission urged anyone who has been approached or has information related to the scam to report the matter to the relevant authorities.
ZMC said it was already engaging law enforcement agencies to investigate the matter and bring those responsible to justice.
In the interim, the commission has called on media practitioners and stakeholders to remain vigilant when seeking its services.
The commission said all legitimate services related to media accreditation cards were accessed strictly through official ZMC channels, including its offices and official website.
It also encouraged members of the public to verify the authenticity of any communication or transaction by contacting ZMC directly.
Those who believe they may have fallen victim to the scam, or who have information that could assist investigations, have been advised to report the matter to ZMC or the nearest police station.
Verification and further information, it said, can also be sought through its official website and social media platforms.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over scams targeting professionals in the diaspora, with authorities urging increased caution in financial transactions involving accreditation and regulatory services.
Peter Tanyanyiwa