MTN Group, Africa’s largest telecoms company, has announced that its chairman, Mcebisi Jonas, has been impersonated again.
This incident marks the second time Jonas has been targeted by fraudsters using his identity for malicious purposes.
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Impersonation of MTN chair
On Thursday, MTN revealed that a fake X account was impersonating Jonas and spreading false information.
The company emphasised that Jonas has no X account, and opinions expressed on the fake account do not represent his views or those of MTN Group.
Experts warn of a rise in impersonation crimes across South Africa and the continent, with fraudsters using tactics like phishing, smishing, and vishing to deceive victims.
“We urge the public to not fall prey to scammers and report all suspicious and unsolicited phone calls, emails, and WhatsApp communication received to us,” Nompilo Morafo from MTN’s Corporate Affairs office previously stated when similar incidents occurred two years ago.
MTN action against impersonation
MTN is taking necessary actions to address this issue. The company is investigating these incidents with its Internal Audit and Forensic team.
MTN investigated historical examples of fraudulent corporate social investment project financing offers. The public is advised to remain vigilant against such scams.
As part of its Ambition 2025 agenda, MTN enhances procedures to prevent cyber and fraud risks. This comprises an effective control environment backed by management responsibilities and internal audits.
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How the Scam Works:
Fraudsters contact victims, claiming they are from MTN.
They are requesting urgent EFT payments for the foundation projects that are supposed to be completed.
Red Flags:
Urgent payment requests via email or phone.
Suspicious links or attachments.
What to Do:
Report suspicious communications immediately.