CONFIDENCE DECEPTIONS AND CONSUMER FRAUDS

Fraud is considered as a deliberate misrepresentation of the truth, ensuing in an individual or group of individuals suffering actual or potential loss, damage or injury.

In South Africa it is considered a serious crime and is punishable in a court of law.

Victims are usually the elderly, strangers, newcomers to an area or travellers. At times, victims could be huge multinationals or even governments.

Most individuals who practice fraud are consummate and persuasive purveyors of their "trade". These professional confidence tricksters thrive on the level of ignorance displayed by the intended victim.

Thus, here are some helpful suggestions that will enable you to make an informed decision, one that is very unlike to see you lose your possessions or your money.

1. Always insist on some time to consider the deal before you put pen to paper or hand out any money. You are well within your rights to do so and you can use to time to investigate the legitimacy and credibility of the proposed deal and investigate the individuals involved.

2. Check with your friends, family, fellow travellers, our local law enforcement and investment agencies as to the veracity of the proposed deal. The advice and guidance you receive will most certainly equip you in making a decision that is ultimately to your benefit.

3. If the "dealmaker" is insistent that you are going to jeopardise the arrangement if you do not agree to it at once or if you immediately do not fork out any cash, this kind of behaviour serves as a warning sign. Letting it go should be your best option.

4. Always bear in mind, the universal golden rule of experienced and successful investors, and internationally astute businessmen which is: "If it is too good to be true ?? it usually isn??t."

5. Keep in your possession all documentation relating to the transaction such as contracts, guarantees, receipts and copies of cheques.