By Zuko Komisa
Nelson Mandela’s birthday is observed in South Africa in July by citizens across the country who go out of their way to make a difference in their communities.
Mandela Day which is on July 18 is an occasion for all to take action and inspire change but at the same time an opportunity for scammers to take advantage of well-meaning members of society.
Also Read: WATCH: uSpongeBob SquarePants wesiZulu ufikile
Kaya Biz with Gugulethu Mfuphi spoke to Mashadi Letwaba – Programme Director at forgood, who shared useful tips for the public on how to spot scammers during Mandela month.
LISTEN TO THE FULL CONVERSATION HERE:
Letwaba says South Africa is one of the hardest hit countries when it comes to cybercrime.
“With everything that has been happening with the riots, disasters we’ve had an increase of companies that are posing as organisations asking volunteers for donations and you find that they are not really credible organisations with Mandela Day on the way there’s also another opportunity for those types of crimes, with companies taking advantage of individual’s kindness.
“We are one of the hardest hit countries by cybercriminals, and this is because South Africans want to help. W can be a little bit too trusting without knowing those involved in cybercrime,” says Letwaba.
Forgood.co.za, offered useful tips to use when you spot a charitable organisation.
According to forgood CEO Romy Heldsinger, on volunteering platform Forgood.co.za, the following are things to consider before volunteering this Mandela Day,
“The first question to ask yourself when selecting a cause is whether it is servicing a real need.”
“Instead of volunteering for an activity that will look good on your Instagram handle or give you an ego boost, ask whether the results of the volunteering will actually end up helping people, animals or the environment in any real and meaningful way,” says Heldsinger
READ NEXT: Second state-owned power utility is on the cards to alleviate SA’s electricity crisis
