Johannesburg – Anglo American has warned the public about online share trading scams circulating on various social media and digital platforms.
In a statement on Wednesday, (11 December 2024), Anglo American said it has “noted an increase in online share trading scams circulating on various social media and digital platforms, bearing fictitious company brand identities and names of some of its executives to lure unsuspecting victims”.
Anglo American is a leading global mining company focused on the responsible production of copper, premium iron ore, and crop nutrients – future-enabling products that are essential for decarbonising the global economy, improving living standards, and food security.
Scammers are taking advantage of unsuspecting people by promoting fake trading platforms and offering unrealistic returns on investments. Such platforms tend to be well-designed Apps and websites that are extremely sophisticated.
However, Anglo American warned that no company would ever trade in shares directly with the public.in this way.
Nevashnee Naicker, the Executive Head of External Relations at Anglo American in South Africa urged the public to exercise caution when interacting with emails and social media platforms.
“Scammers often use faces of prominent business leaders in fraudulent recruitment, procurement, and share trading, resulting in many people falling victim,” Naicker.
“We’ve seen several fake videos on social media using artificial intelligence, and posts encouraging people to invest their hard-earned money.
“These posts then get shared by unsuspecting people on platforms such as WhatsApp, making them hard to trace and stop.
“Do not to respond to unsolicited offers through emails and social media advertisements with links.
“Anglo American will never ask anyone to invest in this way.”
Online scams affect everyone.
Anglo American is increasing its efforts to raise awareness about the risks and tactics used by cybercriminals to defraud individuals and organisations online.
Anglo American encourages members of the public to report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
“Your diligence in reporting suspicious activity and remaining cautious will help protect you from potential harm and financial loss,” said Naicker.
“Remember, if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
Members of the public can also alert Anglo American of any potential fraudulent activity associated with the company via corporateaffairs@angloamerican.com
