Public Safety Information

    Debt Industry Scam Warnings
    South Africa

    Thousands of South Africans fall victim to debt scams every year. Learn to identify fraudulent debt services, protect yourself from fraud, and report suspicious activity.

    Debt Review Removal ScamsReport a Scam
    NCR Registered: NCRDC3106
    Working with SAPS

    Common Debt Scam Types in South Africa

    Click on each category to learn about specific scam tactics and how to protect yourself.

    Debt Review Removal Scams

    Fraudulent schemes promising instant debt review removal or fake clearance certificates.

    Most reported scam type

    Fake Debt Counsellors

    Unregistered operators pretending to be NCR-registered debt counsellors.

    Coming soon

    Debt Consolidation Scams

    False promises of consolidating all debts into one low payment without proper registration.

    Coming soon

    ITC Clearance Scams

    Fraudulent services claiming to 'clear your ITC' instantly or remove legitimate debts.

    Coming soon

    Upfront Fee Scams

    Services demanding large upfront payments before providing any actual assistance.

    Coming soon

    Fake Legal Letters

    Fraudsters sending fake legal threats to pressure consumers into paying fake debts.

    Coming soon

    General Warning Signs

    These red flags apply to all types of debt scams. If you notice any of these, proceed with extreme caution.

    1

    Unregistered with NCR

    Always verify NCR registration before using any debt counselling service.

    2

    No Physical Address

    Legitimate companies have verifiable physical offices, not just PO boxes or WhatsApp numbers.

    3

    Pressure Tactics

    Scammers create urgency with 'limited time offers' or threats of legal action.

    4

    Unrealistic Promises

    Claims of 'instant clearance' or '100% debt write-off' are red flags.

    5

    Large Upfront Payments

    Legitimate services have transparent fee structures and don't demand R10,000+ upfront.

    6

    No Written Agreements

    Always insist on written contracts before committing to any service.

    How to Verify Any Debt Service

    Before using any debt service, follow these verification steps to protect yourself.

    1. Check NCR Registration

    Verify the debt counsellor's NCR number on the official NCR website.

    NCR Register

    2. Verify CIPC Registration

    Check if the company is registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission.

    CIPC Portal

    3. Check Attorney Registration

    Verify legal practitioners through the Legal Practice Council.

    LPC Check

    4. Search Online Reviews

    Look for Google reviews, Hellopeter complaints, and social media presence.

    Report a Scam

    If you've been targeted or defrauded, report it immediately. Your report can help protect others.

    National Credit Regulator (NCR)

    Report to NDRC

    South African Police Service (SAPS)

    Report criminal fraud to your local police station or the SAPS Commercial Crime Unit. Keep all evidence including messages, payment receipts, and any documents received.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Need Legitimate Debt Help?

    NDRC is NCR Registered (NCRDC3106). Get a free assessment with transparent processes and no scam tactics.

    Free Debt AssessmentCall 041 012 5036