Beware of Electricity WhatsApp scammers
28 August 2025
The City of Cape Town’s Electricity Department warns residents about a new electricity scam and urges everyone to be vigilant of individuals posing as City officials. These scammers are contacting residents via WhatsApp and falsely claiming that residents’ services will be disconnected due to outstanding municipal debt. Always take a moment to pause and verify by phoning the City’s Call Centre first on 0860 103 089.
‘ A recent case in the Helderberg was reported to the City, where a resident received a WhatsApp message followed by phone calls, falsely stating that their electricity would be disconnected due to municipal account arrears. The scammers requested urgent payment to be made into a bank account or via e-Wallet to avoid service disconnection. The resident recognised the scam attempt and immediately alerted the City.
‘The City is investigating this matter and appeals to all residents to remain alert and report any suspicious encounters. We remind residents that the City does not notify residents of service disconnections via WhatsApp or any other social media platform and no City official may request payment via e-Wallet or personal bank accounts. Importantly, all payments to the City must be made through official City channels, such as visiting a municipal cash office or by making electronic payments using details on the monthly municipal bill. We ask residents to inform their family and friends and especially the elderly, so that residents are aware of scammers. Always pause and verify first by phoning the City’s Call Centre on 0860 103 089,’ said the Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, Alderman Xanthea Limberg.
Important tips for residents:
The City does not notify residents of service disconnections (water or electricity) via WhatsApp.
No City official may request payment via e-wallet or personal bank accounts.
Payments must only be made through official City channels.
What to know when the City carries out work in your area:
When the City carries out work in your area or schedules an appointment with you, all City staff or contractors are required to carry an identification card. This card must:
Display the City logo
Include the name and surname of the staff member or contractor
Contain an embedded photo of the staff member or contractor
If unsure, residents are encouraged to call the City’s Call Centre on 0860 103 089 for verification.
Report suspicious activity:
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
