Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
travel.gc.ca
Common menu bar links
CONTENT|CONTENU
TRAVEL REPORT
South Africa
Table of contents
1. RECENT UPDATES
Section 6 (measles) has been updated.
BACK TO TOP
2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
There is no Official Warning for this country.
South Africa
| Exercise normal security precautions | Exercise high degree of caution | Avoid non-essential travel | Avoid all travel |
Travellers are advised to exercise a high degree of caution in the country. South Africa has a generally stable political climate; however, nationwide strikes and demonstrations occur regularly and often with little warning. It would be prudent to avoid large crowds and demonstrations, and take appropriate precautions. There have been incidents of violence and looting caused by lack of crowd control at demonstrations in the past. Canadians are advised to monitor the media with regards to the whereabouts of such demonstrations.
Although the security situation in the country is relatively calm, Canadians should be aware that South Africa has a very high level of serious crime. Sporadic incidents of violence also occur, as demonstrated by the episodes of violence that took place in a number of townships in May 2008.
Canadians should pay close attention to their personal security and monitor the media for updates on safety or security risks.
As of May 1, 2010, the old airport that served Durban is no longer in use. The new King Shaka International Airport is located at La Mercy, 65 km north of the old airport.
OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.
BACK TO TOP
3. SAFETY AND SECURITY
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety. The purpose of this Travel Report is to provide Canadians with up-to-date information to enable them to make well-informed decisions.
Crime
South Africa has a very high level of crime. Crime is the primary security threat for travellers.
Violent crimes, including rape and murder, routinely occur and have involved foreigners. Muggings, armed assaults and theft are also frequent and are often high in areas popular with tourists. Carjackings and cases of robbery and assault have been reported as well.
Armed robberies at shopping malls have increased. If confronted by an armed individual Canadians are advised to immediately comply, avoid making sudden movements and to not resist or antagonize assailants.
Common criminal strategies
Canadians are urged to be alert to ploys intended to stop their vehicle. Criminals have been known to create bogus accidents or roadblocks and to throw rocks and bricks from freeway overpasses onto moving vehicles to damage cars and disorientate drivers. The criminal then waits for the driver to pull over or exit the car before grabbing exposed valuables or stealing the vehicle.
The South African Police Service does not have “Tourist Police.” Criminals, however, have posed as “Tourist Police” to extort and rob tourists, including by stopping tourist buses to check proof of identity and search luggage.
Canadians are advised to not pull over on the side of the road unless ordered to do so by identifiable police officers. In rural areas, the police use flashlights to stop drivers. Travellers should slow down but should not stop unless a police officer can be clearly identified.
Travellers should be especially vigilant at vulnerable points, park in well-lit areas, not pick up strangers and ensure that vehicle doors are locked and windows are closed at all times.
Hotel theft
Theft, including from hotel rooms and guest houses, is common. Travellers should never leave their windows or doors opened or unlocked, even when they are present. The level of security at guest houses, hotels, lodges, backpacker lodges, or any accommodation should be checked before making bookings. Luggage and valuables should never be left unattended and should be placed in safekeeping facilities.
Travellers should not open the door to anyone without taking necessary precautions. If someone claims to be a member of staff, verify with the reception prior to opening the door.
ABM machines
Attacks on automated banking machines (ABMs), in which criminals use explosives to gain access to the cash box, have increased throughout the country. Be particularly vigilant and do not let yourself get distracted at ABM machines, as assaults on people using them also occur. Although attacks usually take place in isolated areas and early in the morning, some have been perpetrated in high-traffic areas. Travellers should not attempt to use ABMs that appear damaged or defective or are located in isolated or poorly lit areas. Do not accept any offer of assistance with your transaction. If suspicious at any time, cancel your transaction and use another ABM. Wherever possible, money should not be withdrawn at petrol stations (gas stations) which are often targeted by criminals. Avoid using ABMs at night and, if possible, have someone accompany you to watch the area during your transaction.
Fraud
Cases of attempted fraud are frequently reported in this country. For more information on overseas scams and their impact on the security of Canadians, see our Global Issues page.
Reserves and safaris
There are inherent risks associated with viewing wildlife (both marine and on land), particularly on foot or at close range. Travellers should always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife and avoid exiting vehicles unless it is deemed safe to do so by professional guides and wardens. Visitors should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice.
There have been attacks on hikers and tourists at reserves, hiking trails and on Table Mountain. Some attacks have been violent. Authorities, who are attempting to address the problem, recommend that visitors walk in groups and take all appropriate precautions.
Isolated picnic areas and beaches are not recommended. Do not stop at deserted roadside resting places on national roads and be aware that travellers have been attacked and robbed in parking areas at tourist attractions. Please be aware of the threat of monkeys and Baboons overwhelming sightseers in their search for food. They are known to get very aggressive.
Beaches
Coastal waters have unpredictable wave and tide patterns and can be dangerous. Travellers should follow the advice and warnings of local authorities. Shark attacks have been reported in several areas, including in the False Bay area of the Cape.
Townships and rural areas
Townships and rural areas should only be visited with an organized tour provided by a reputable company.
Crime significantly increases after dark in major city centres and townships. As such, Canadians should avoid the areas of Berea, Hillbrow, and Yeoville in Johannesburg, Sunnyside in Pretoria, and the beachfront and Victoria wharf in Durban. In Cape Town, it is not recommended to walk from hotels located downtown to the waterfront.
General safety information
Travellers should not show signs of affluence, display money or carry valuables such as laptop computers or cameras. When at restaurants or bars, keep your handbag on your lap. Do not leave your bag under your chair or table or hung over the back of a chair. Gentlemen, should not put their wallets in their back trouser pockets. There is a high risk of pickpocketting. Ensure that all zippers, straps and fasteners are closed and secure, and be aware of people behind and around you.
Do not leave your food or drink unattended. There have been incidents of food or drink being drugged and tourists robbed when unconscious.
Criminals have been known to gravitate towards ‘soft’ targets, people who appear preoccupied and do not pay attention to their immediate surroundings. Visitors who believe they are being followed should travel directly to a police station.
As a pedestrian, take extreme care when crossing streets. Drivers are often aggressive towards pedetrians and fail to yield the right of way even on marked crosswalks.
Travel on foot is inadvisable in most areas. If walking is unavoidable, use only brightly lit, busy streets in popular tourist areas and maintain awareness of your surroundings at all times. Walking after dark should be avoided.
Travellers should always carry a cellular phone in the event of an emergency and, if using their own phone, ensure that it has internationa/roaming capability for use while in South Africa. Rental mobile phones are available at all major airports.
Cellular phone reception is generally good in major towns and cities but can be intermittent in rural areas.
Interruptions to the supply of electricity and water occur from time to time and can be lengthy in some areas, resulting in considerable inconvenience.
The nationwide emergency number for the police is 10111, and the nationwide number for ambulance service is 10177.
BACK TO TOP
4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.
The following information on entry and exit requirements has been obtained from the South African authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the High Commission of the Republic of South Africa and its consulates for up-to-date information.
A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit South Africa. The passport must be valid for a period of at least 30 days beyond the date of your expected departure from South Africa. However, it is recommended that your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of your departure. Canadians arriving in South Africa with a full passport (i.e. does not contain at least two empty pages for the necessary South African Temporary Resident Permit or visa), will be denied entry to South Africa. Please ensure you have sufficient visa pages for travel to neighbouring countries and back to South Africa for the duration of your trip. The new Immigration Act does not make provision for this scenario and Canadians will be denied entry.
The passport holder must also be in posession of a return or an onward ticket. Without one, travellers may be required to deposit the equivalent of a fare home with customs. The money will be refunded after departure from South Africa.
Visas
Canadians will be denied entry to South Africa and/or neighbouring countries if their passport does not contain at least two completely empty visa pages. This rule is strictly enforced.
Canadians requiring a passport replacement should know that they will have to travel to Pretoria to do so. Consular assistance is not provided at ports of entry should there be insufficient visa pages in a Canadian passport.
Reports indicate that some foreign travellers to South Africa have not been going through the correct channels to obtain, change, or extend their relevant visas, resulting in arrest and detention due to fraudulently issued visas. While in South Africa, Canadian travellers requiring information on visa requirements and issuance should go through regional or district offices of the South African Department of Home Affairs only.
Canadians who intend to work or study in South Africa must apply for the relevant visas prior to their arrival in South Africa. They otherwise risk being refused entry and may be returned to their point of origin. Travellers should check the latest requirements with South African authorities before travelling.
Canadians who have overstayed without authority may be required to pay a fine upon departure. Re-entry into South Africa will not be permitted until the fine has been paid in full. Serious offenders may be arrested on departure and detained before appearing in court. In such cases, visitors may face a very substantial fine and be deported at their own expense.
Tourist Visa (90 days or less): Not required
Business Visa (90 days or less): Not required
Student Permit (90 days or less): Required
Employment Permit: Required
Diplomatic or Special Passport: Not required
Passports
Passport services are offered in Pretoria only. Should you require a replacement Canadian passport, you will be referred to Pretoria, as the consulates in Johannesburg and Durban do not offer passport services.
Ensure all pages are present when you retrieve your passport from hotel staff or at any other time that you have surrendered your passport and it has been out of your sight.
Yellow fever
Travellers may be required to show evidence of a yellow fever vaccination if they are arriving from countries where yellow fever is endemic.
Dual citizenship
Citizens of both South Africa and Canada, of age of majority, must enter or depart South Africa making use of their South African passport only. Dual nationals travelling without proper South African travel documentation or on a non-South-African passport could be issued a warning, refused exit from South Africa, fined, or imprisoned. For further information on dual citizenship, contact the High Commission for the Republic of South Africa in Ottawa.
A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.
Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.
Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.
Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.
BACK TO TOP
5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS
You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:
South Africa - PRETORIA, High Commission of Canada
Address: 1103 Arcadia Street, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0083, South Africa
Postal Address: P.O. Box Private Bag X13, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0028, South Africa
Tel.: 27 (12) 422-3000
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 0800-992-773
Fax: 27 (12) 422-3052
E-Mail: pret@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.southafrica.gc.ca
South Africa - JOHANNESBURG, High Commission of Canada Trade Office
Address: Cradock Place, 1st Floor, 10 Arnold Road, off Cradock Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg 2196, South Africa
Postal Address: P.O. Box 1394, Parklands 2121, Johannesburg, South Africa,
Tel.: 27 (11) 442-3130
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 0800-992-773
Fax: 27 (11) 442-3325
E-Mail: jobrg@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.southafrica.gc.ca
No passport services offered at the Johannesburg Trade office. Please refer to the High Commission in Pretoria.
South Africa - DURBAN, Consulate of Canada
Address: Suite 9, Tinsley House, 225 Musgrave road (corner of Musgrave and St Thomas), Berea, Durban, 4001, South Africa
Tel.: 27 (31) 202-3432
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 0800-992-773
Fax: 27 (31) 202-3431
E-Mail: rmcelligott@telkomsa.net
Internet: http://www.southafrica.gc.ca
No passport services offered at the Durban Honorary Consulate. Please refer to the High Commission in Pretoria.
Emergency assistance
For emergency assistance after hours, call the Canadian High Commission in Pretoria, listen to the full message and follow the instructions. You may also reach the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa directly (collect call) at 613-996-8885. To place a collect call to Canada from South Africa, dial 0800 990014 and follow the instructions.
BACK TO TOP
6. TRAVEL HEALTH
The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.
Recent cases of measles have been reported in South Africa.
There have also been reports of an outbreak of rift valley fever (RVF) in parts of South-Africa. Although most cases of the outbreak are reported in the province of Free State (near Lesotho), cases have also been reported in the eastern and northern Cape provinces. For information on symptoms associated with rift valley fever and protective measures to be taken, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Web site.
The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.
Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.
The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.
BACK TO TOP
7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
Comprehensive Medical Insurance
It is imperative that travellers arrange comprehensive medical insurance prior to departure and have coverage for medical evacuation. Travellers should check any exclusions and make sure that their policy covers all the activities they wish to undertake, especially extreme adventure sports or wildlife activities.
Public and private facilities will require up-front cash deposits for services, a guarantee of payment, or confirmation of medical insurance before commencing treatment.
Canadians are urged to include their travel insurance details when registering to enable authorities to assist them quickly in a medical emergency.
Medical facilities
Medical facilities and supplies are adequate in large cities but can be expensive. Medical facilities are limited in remote areas. Air evacuation may be the only option when faced with a medical emergency in remote areas.
Decompression chambers are located at Kleinmont Hospital in Cape Town, St Augustine’s Hospital in Durban, Eugene Marais Hospital in Pretoria and Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg.
Foreign prescriptions have to be validated by an South African doctor before a pharmacist can give you the medication.
During the FIFA World Cup in 2010, facilities may be strained by the tens of thousands of expected visitors.
Health tips
Water-borne, food-borne and infectious diseases (including tuberculosis, measles and rabies) are prevalent, with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time. Travellers are advised to use good personal hygiene practices. While tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities, travellers should take all necessary precautions in rural areas; boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, and avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food.
As the level of HIV/AIDS infection in South Africa is very high, you should be cautious about activities involving the transmission of bodily fluids. South Africa has one of the highest incidence of reported rape in the world. Victims of rape or sexual assault are strongly encouraged to seek immediate medical assistance, including antiretroviral therapy against HIV/AIDS.
To avoid risks of mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, travellers should cover up, use mosquito repellent and take the necessary preventative medication.
To avoid risks of mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria, travellers should cover up, use mosquito repellent and take the necessary preventative medication.
See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.
BACK TO TOP
8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS
You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.
Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.
The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.
Same-sex marriage is legal in South Africa.
Illegal and/or Restricted Activities
Penalties for using, importing or exporting drugs are strict and may include imprisonment.
Possession of pornographic material is illegal.
Travellers to South Africa may not import or take in-transit any firearms or ammunition without a temporary import or in-transit permit issued by the South African Police Service.
BACK TO TOP
9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY
Road travel and conditions
Travellers should expect delays in and around Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Bloemfontein, where major road construction and road work is underway. Travel plans should be amended accordingly.
Traffic drives on the left. Road conditions are generally good, but some roads in the more remote areas are less well maintained and potholes may be encountered. It is strongly recommended that you drive cautiously at all times and adhere to speed limits.
Travellers should avoid undertaking overland travel after dark. Insufficient lighting on rural roads makes it difficult to see pedestrians. Pedestrians are known to cross major highways.
There are many road accidents causing death in South Africa. Alcohol and poor driving standards (ignoring traffic signs, speeding and indescriminate overtaking) are often contributing factors, particularly at night. Driving in wet conditions, as roads get very slippery, and not observing the recommended following distances can also lead to many accidents.
Beware of relying solely on Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation devices as they may direct you through unsafe areas. Travellers are advised to verify their route prior to departure.
When renting a vehicle, choose a vehicle with robust locks and central locking, a lockable fuel tank cap and a vehicle alarm. Use a reliable company offering 24-hour emergency service, and ensure that you have the contact details for the service.
It is illegal to carry gasoline in portable containers.
Taxis
Taxis cannot be hailed in the street. Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi and ensure that you prearrange transport for your return journey. Sit in the rear of the vehicle and keep windows up and doors locked at all times. Keep valuables out of sight and place bags by your feet. It is advisable to negotiate the fare with the driver in advance. Avoid using minibus and unlicensed taxis.
Public transport is not recommended
Buses and trains
Tourists have been mugged and assaulted in and around bus stations. Avoid the central bus station in Johannesburg. It is not recommended to travel in second or third class. Commuter Train travel is not recommended. Services are slow and several serious accidents in recent years have raised concerned over safety standards. Violent attacks have also taken place on local commuter and metro trains between Johannesburg and Pretoria, as well as on commuter trains in Cape Town.
Airports
Passport theft and baggage pilferage are prevalent at both international and regional airports. All valuables should be placed in your hand luggage, not in checked-in luggage. Where possible, suitcases should be locked and wrapped in secure plastic film (this service is available at most airports for a nominal fee).
Do not accept unsolicited offers of assistance with carrying your luggage or pushing your luggage trolley. Remain vigilant and do not leave any bags unattended even for a moment. Care is to be taken at X-ray machines whilst having handheld baggage scanned; where possible, accompany your luggage through these stations. There has been a string of thefts inside the secure area of the International Terminal at the OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg (after the security checkpoint and past immigration).
Travellers should arrange to be met upon arrival at the airport and dropped off on departure by reliable contacts. Clearly identify who is picking you up before getting into their vehicle. There have been incidents of passengers being followed from airports to their accommodation and robbed. Should you be concerned that you are being followed, proceed to the first available gas station or police station for assistance.
See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.
Driver's licence
Canadian provincial driver's licence holders can legally use their valid Canadian licences in South Africa if they are there as a visitor or on a student or work permit. If your licence is in French, it is advisable to obtain a translation into English and carry this with you.
It will be extremely difficult to obtain car insurance for car rentals or to purchase a car without an International Driving Permit. Insurance companies and rental car agengies often require proof of a South African or international drivers licence in order to honour an insurance claim, even when such proof was not requested at the time the policy was secured. An International Driving Permit must be obtained in Canada before travel to South Africa, as it cannot be obtained locally.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Currency
The currency is the South African rand (ZAR). Canadian currency and traveller's cheques can be easily exchanged at major banks and foreign exchange counters.
Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.
BACK TO TOP
10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
The climate varies from region to region. Flash storms can occur in Gauteng from November to April. There are heavy rains along the south coast from June to September. Dirt roads can become hazardous during these periods. After heavy rains, do not attempt to cross low-lying river bridges by car or on foot, as there have been fatalities linked to persons getting washed down river. You should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
Veld (bush) fires are common during dry seasons. They are very unpredictable and extremely dangerous. Veld fires can spread very quickly and travel at speeds of 60 km/hr or more due to high winds. Stay clear of any wildfire and always verify local conditions with relevant authorities before going on bush walks during the dry seasons.
BACK TO TOP
11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Returning to Canada
Traveller's Checklist
Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.
Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.
Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.
BACK TO TOP
12. ANNEX
TIPS FOR BUSINESS TRAVELLERS TO SOUTH AFRICA
Recognizing a Business Scam
Business scams in South Africa are confidence schemes, designed to exploit the trust you develop in your South African partner and defraud you of goods, services, or money. The scams are flexible, and operators adapt them to take the greatest advantage of the target.
Caution should be exercised when contemplating any business transaction involving South Africa. The scams range from attempts to engage business people in fictitious money transfer schemes to fraudulent solicitations and fraudulent real estate transactions. The scams are very sophisticated and may take victims to staged meetings, often held in borrowed offices at overseas locations. The persons involved do their research and can often provide plausible, but non-existent, orders written on seemingly genuine government stationery, replete with official stamps and seals.
Business scams in South Africa are not always easy to recognize, and any unsolicited business proposal should be carefully scrutinized. There are, nevertheless, some indicators that are warnings of a probable scam. Look out for:
- Any offer of a substantial percentage of a large sum of money to be transferred into your account in return for your "discretion" or "confidentiality";
- Any deal that seems too good to be true;
- Requests for signed and stamped blank letterhead or invoices, or for bank account information;
- Requests for urgent air shipment, accompanied by an instrument of payment whose genuineness cannot immediately be established;
- Solicitation letters or e-mails claiming that the soliciting party has personal ties to senior South African officials;
- Requests for advance payment in U.S. dollars, in advance of transfer taxes or incorporation fees;
- Statements that your name was provided to the soliciting party either by someone you do not know or by a "reliable contact";
CONTACT INFORMATION
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
Africa and Middle East Trade Division
125 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0G2
Ask for the Commercial Officer responsible for South Africa at (613) 944-4000. If you already have a contact name, you can also fax your request at (613) 996-9709.
High Commission for the Republic of South Africa
15 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON
K1M 1M8
Telephone (613) 744-0330 (24h)
Fax (613) 741-1639
Commercial Crime Branch
Royal Canadian Mounted Police
1200 Vanier Parkway
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0R2
Tel.: 613-991-4331
Fax: 613-993-4299
PhoneBusters National Call Centre
P.O. Box 686
North Bay, ON
P1B 8J8
Tel.: 1 888 495-8501 or 705-495-8501
Fax: 1 888 654-9426 or 705-494-4755
Website: www.phonebusters.com
BACK TO TOP
