Johannesburg - South Africans should be wary of scams linked to the upcoming African Cup of Nations (Afcon) soccer tournament, the trade and industry department said on Thursday.
Scams were often prevalent during events such as Afcon, the department said in a statement.
“These scams may typically relate to sale of tickets, offering of hospitality packages or provision of affordable accommodation during the Afcon 2013”.
The department said consumers sometimes could not tell the difference between valid and accredited ticket suppliers versus fake suppliers, often paying large amounts of money for fake tickets.
“Valid match tickets can only be acquired from approved service providers. Consumers are warned not to purchase match tickets from sources that are not accredited by Afcon 2013,” the department said.
EQ Tickets was appointed the exclusive ticket provider for Afcon, in conjunction with Spar stores. Tickets should only be acquired via the EQ Tickets website, kiosks or call centres, plus Spar and Super Spar stores.
“The tickets contain advanced and extensive security features to ensure authenticity and to avert counterfeits,” said the department.
The department urged the public to blow the whistle on any scams they may come into contact with. Complaints could be lodged with the National Consumer Commission.
The tournament will take place between January 19 and February 10 with games held in Johannesburg, Rustenburg, Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit and Durban. - Sapa