Samsung South Africa has issued a warning about a false competition that is being run, using its name to entice users into paying for their entry into a bogus lotto.

The company elaborated that the public may receive letters, informing them that they have won a 2012 Model Ford Fiesta in an ongoing Samsung mobile random selection lotto.

However, in order to receive the vehicle, they are told that they 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.

No competition exists

“Samsung South Africa is not running any such competition in association with Ford,” stressed Michelle Potgieter, the head of marketing and corporate communications at Samsung Electronics South Africa.

“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,” she continued.

She further advised that all competitions and promotions undertaken by Samsung Electronics South Africa will always be displayed on the company’s website.

To the point

“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,” she concluded.