Ever received a call promising a free prize that sounds too good to be true? This scenario from Vodacom raises red flags as a classic scam tactic. The polite caller avoids asking for sensitive info upfront, building trust, but insists on 'donations' to charities via unusual methods like cellphone or ATM—bypassing official channels. Legitimate prizes don't require payments; this is likely a ploy to extract money indirectly. Hang up immediately if pressured. Report to Vodacom and authorities like the FTC or local consumer protection. Verify any claims independently, and never share details or send funds to unsolicited callers. Stay vigilant to protect yourself and others from similar fraud.
The person sounded courteous, claimed to represent Vodacom and said you’d won a prize, refused to ask for bank or ID details, but insisted you donate to one of three charities—like Gift of the Givers—via cellphone or ATM before receiving the prize, and hung up if you refused. Reports indicate an elderly victim lost around R40,000.
