Standard Bank is alerting the public to a new scam currently circulating in Namibia, where fraudsters impersonate representatives from WiFi or internet service providers. The callers claim that they need to “upgrade your WiFi connection” or “improve your internet speed,” and then guide victims into performing fraudulent banking transactions.
The scam involves criminals instructing individuals to dial the PayPulse code — for example, *140*6626# — under the guise of assisting with a WiFi upgrade. Once the victim follows the steps provided, unauthorised digital transactions are processed without their knowledge.
Colanè Esterhuizen‑Andreas, Fraud Risk Manager at Standard Bank, warns that this tactic is becoming increasingly common and urges customers to remain vigilant.
“WiFi or internet upgrades never require any form of banking activity. The bank will never ask customers to dial USSD codes, approve payments, or move money in order to enable services from another provider. If someone calls you and asks you to perform any transaction on your phone, it is a scam,” says Esterhuizen‑Andreas.
She further urges the public to immediately end any suspicious call where they feel pressured or unsure.
Key safety reminders:
- Do not dial USSD codes or perform transactions at someone else’s instruction, even if they claim to be from a reputable service provider.
- WiFi or internet upgrades do not require banking authorisation of any kind.
- Standard Bank will never request PINs, passwords, OTPs, or that customers approve payments to facilitate non‑banking services.
- Never share your banking details — not even with individuals claiming to be bank staff.
- Hang up immediately if you feel uncomfortable or uncertain during any call.
Standard Bank continues to monitor emerging fraud trends and is committed to educating the public to help prevent financial loss.