From identity theft to false fines: How to spot a scam these holidays

PEOPLE going on holiday locally and those travelling to neighbouring countries for the Festive Season need to be on the lookout for criminals posing as border officials as well as fraudulent transport and accommodation scams.

- ZELDA VENTER

That's the warning from Ann-Suhet Marx, Director and Head of Litigation at law firm VDM Incorporated.

While legitimate checks at roadblocks and border crossing are essential, syndicates are exploiting the chaos of peak travel, posing as officials or service providers to extort cash from unsuspecting families, she warns.

"It's the time of year when identity theft, false fines, and financial losses spike, so South Africans must be able to tell the difference between lawful checks and unlawful demands designed to defraud and intimidate."

Marx further warned that not every uniform is legitimate, pointing out that criminals thrive on confusion and fear, and travellers who don't know their rights are the easiest targets. Earlier this month, the Border Management Authority unveiled its Festive Season Operational Plan for 2025/2026 - a strategy designed to keep South Africa's borders secure and efficient during the busiest travel months of the year.