The Potchefstroom-based municipality has urged residents to verify the authenticity of payment requests through its official communication channels before making any payments or taking action. The fraudulent messages reportedly urge consumers to make immediate payments on their municipal accounts to avoid disconnection of municipal services.

“We continue to urge all residents and consumers to remain vigilant and exercise caution when receiving such messages,” said JB Marks spokesperson Jeanette Tshite.

The messages appear convincing and contain contact details, an email address and banking information, making it difficult to distinguish them from legitimate municipal communication.

Consumers have been urged not to make payments in response to the messages or share personal and banking information with the senders.

Residents who wish to verify payment requests or make enquiries can contact the municipality on 018 299 5181 or 018 299 5766, or visit their nearest municipal branch.

The municipality has reminded consumers that official payments should only be made using its verified banking details:

• Nedbank: Account name – JB Marks Local Municipality; account number – 149 7222 400; branch code – 198765.

• Absa: Account name – JB Marks Local Municipality; account number – 409 0067 672; branch code – 634540.

Meanwhile, the municipality has also called on customers, property owners, account holders, consumers and ratepayers to ensure their personal contact details are updated and accurate on the municipal billing system.

It warned the postal delivery of municipal account statements could be delayed or unsuccessful because of outdated personal information.

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