Staff Reporter
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has issued a stern warning to the public about a surge in online scams targeting unsuspecting individuals seeking vehicle registration services.
In a statement this morning, the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR) revealed that fraudsters are posing as officials, soliciting illegal payments, and misleading victims through false promises.
The CVR stated, "We have noted with grave concern the increasing number of fraudsters and criminals posing as CVR officials and scamming members of the public."
The scams include soliciting payments for vehicle registration services, fraudulently offering to process number plates and driver’s licences, and directing victims to transfer money to personal accounts.
According to the statement, scammers lure victims by falsely claiming that payments made online will enable them to "collect at CVR."
However, the CVR clarified that its online booking platform is "only for backlog driver's licences and notfor vehicle registration services."
The agency emphasised that its platform does not require payments, and any such requests are fraudulent.
"Our institution does not solicit direct online payments to individual accounts for any services," the CVR stated.
The CVR reiterated that all payments must be made in person at their offices.
"Never transfer money to personal accounts or unverified agents," the alert cautioned.
The ministry has called on the public to report any suspicious activity or unauthorised payment requests to CVR offices and the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
"We strongly urge members of the public to immediately report any suspicious activity to help combat these fraudulent activities," the statement read.
Analysts have weighed in on the issue, attributing the rise in scams to the increasing digitisation of services and the public's lack of awareness.
Economic Analyst, Tinashe Chimombe, said, "Scammers are exploiting gaps in public knowledge about official procedures. Government must intensify awareness campaigns and tighten cybersecurity measures to protect citizens."
Cybersecurity expert, Linda Mharadze, added, "These scams thrive because victims are often in urgent need of services and may overlook red flags. Always verify payment requests through official channels before transferring money."
As online fraud becomes more sophisticated, the CVR’s warning serves as a critical reminder for citizens to remain vigilant and adhere to official communication channels to avoid falling victim to scams.
