The Institute of Commercial Forensic Practitioners NPC (ICFP) has become aware of fraudulent WhatsApp messages being circulated by individuals falsely claiming to represent ICFP and using the name “PRECCA” along with the ICFP logo without authorisation.
ICFP wishes to state clearly: we do not conduct investigations, and we do not contact members of the public via WhatsApp to solicit personal information, “evidence,” or verification of relationships with named individuals. ICFP has no affiliation whatsoever with “PRECCA.”
Details of the scam.
The fraudulent messages typically:
- Claim to be from an “independent company” investigating money laundering, fraud, and other misconduct, and claim to be working with SARS and SAPS
- Name specific individuals and make allegations against them
- Request personal information or “evidence” via WhatsApp
- Use the ICFP name and logo, and a phone number formatted to resemble an official ICFP WhatsApp Business account
- May involve further impersonation or harassment once contact is made
These messages are not sent by ICFP, its staff, its Board, or any authorised representative.
What to do if you receive one of these messages
- Do not respond or send any personal information, documents, or payment.
- Do not click any links or call the number back.
- Block and report the number on WhatsApp.
- Take a screenshot for your records.
- Report it to ICFP at chrisdebeer@icfp.co.za so we can monitor the scope of this activity and refer it to the relevant authorities where appropriate.
Verifying communication from ICFP
ICFP will only ever contact members and the public through verified official channels. If you are ever uncertain whether a message claiming to be from ICFP is genuine, please contact us directly.