CYBERCRIME – Beware of WhatsApp Scams – Unblocking of Prepaid Meters

George Municipality kindly asks that all ratepayers, and Municipal clients be vigilant – we have been informed of an individual allegedly named “Kenny Ngene, Head of Disconnections” who is falsely representing himself as an employee of George Municipality. (Please see the attached screenshot) This individual does not represent and is not employed by the George Municipality. The individual has sent WhatsApp messages to a ratepayer requesting the payment of a large sum of money into an unknown bank account to prevent the blocking of a prepaid meter.

PLEASE NOTE:  Municipal officials and agents will always wear identifiable name tags or carry appointment certificates. The community is encouraged to verify the appointment of any individual claiming to represent the Municipality, as advised in the communication below.

The municipality will not contact a ratepayer telephonically or via WhatsApp regarding the blocking of a meter and also not request a large payment into an unknown account to unblock a meter. Your prepaid meter will only be blocked if you have outstanding payments on your municipal account and despite us sending you several SMS (directly to your registered contact number as the municipal account holder), you make no effort to get in touch with us. Only then will your prepaid meter be blocked, and you will have to come in or phone in to resolve and discuss payment arrangements.

Contact for Debt Control Assistance:
For help, phone the municipality’s debt control section at 044 801 9111 during office hours or via email creditcontrol@george.gov.za

CREDIT CONTROL AFTER-HOURS NUMBER: 072 501 1843 ONLY for EMERGENCY BLOCKED ELECTRICITY METERS during the following hours:
Monday to Friday from 16:30 to 20:00/ Saturday from 8:00 to 20:00 and Sunday from 8:00 to 14:00