Cape Town residents have been warned not to pay anyone who claims they can secure a City housing opportunity.
The City’s Human Settlements Directorate said scammers are using WhatsApp and other social media platforms to target people searching for housing.
Fraudsters reportedly claim that residents can improve their chances of receiving a home or secure a housing opportunity by paying them.
However, the City stressed that its housing opportunities and registration services are free.
City housing opportunities are free
Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements Carl Pophaim said no legitimate City housing process requires payment at any stage.
“We remind residents that the City does not charge for housing opportunities, and no official process requires payment at any stage,” Pophaim said.
Eligible residents will not be asked to pay to join the City’s Housing Needs Register. They will also not be charged for the allocation of a housing opportunity or related housing services.
The City said it would never request payment from residents in exchange for housing.
Residents warned against sharing information
Residents should avoid sending money or sharing personal information with unfamiliar people who contact them through messaging apps or social media.
Scammers may use false promises of housing to convince residents to hand over money or sensitive details.
Official communication about City housing opportunities will come directly from City officials through formal and verifiable channels.
Anyone who receives a suspicious message should confirm the information before responding or making a payment.
How to verify housing information
Residents who are uncertain about a housing message can contact the City’s Human Settlements Call Centre on 021 444 0333.
Beneficiaries should also keep their housing registration details updated through official City channels or by visiting a City housing office.
The warning comes as online scammers continue trying to exploit residents who urgently need housing.
The City urged residents to remember one key rule: no payment can secure a place on the Housing Needs Register or guarantee the allocation of a home.
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