Samsung car prize a hoax

Samsung Electronics South Africa is warning consumers of a false competition and hoax informing consumers that they have won a 2012 Model Ford Fiesta in a random selection lotto.

This hoax is falsely using the Samsung name in an aim to entice consumers to deposit a ‘refundable’ insurance fee, before they can claim the prize of a 2012 Model Ford Fiesta vehicle.

In line with this hoax, consumers are receiving letters, informing them that they have won a 2012 Model Ford Fiesta in an on going SAMUSNG MOBILE random selection lotto. However, in order to receive the vehicle, consumers need to pay a fee for car and e-toll registration as well as insurance, amounting to the value of R2 970. The letter states that once payment is made, the vehicle will be delivered in a maximum of 72 working hours.

Says Michelle Potgieter, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Samsung Electronics South Africa: “Samsung South Africa is not running any such competition in association with Ford. This competition is a hoax and we therefore encourage consumers to not act on receipt of such a letter, but to rather report this immediately to Inspector Elvis Hlungweni at the Randburg Police Station on telephone number 011 449 9055 using case number 689/7/2012. Alternatively, consumers can contact Samsung’s call centre on 0860 726 786.”

Samsung South Africa has raised this matter with the SAPS and has been in discussion with Ford, to ensure that this matter can be effectively investigated. “Samsung South Africa takes such hoaxes very seriously to ensure that the South African consumer is protected as best as possible from such falsities,” adds Potgieter.

Consumers should be advised that all competitions and promotions undertaken by Samsung Electronics South Africa will always be displayed on the company’s web site (www.samsung.co.za).

“As always, we urge consumers to verify uncertain competition details through our official web site or alternatively, to contact the Samsung Electronics South Africa call centre (0860 726 786). This will safeguard consumers from divulging personal information or from undue fees paid, as a result of these types of scams,” concludes Potgieter.

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