Northern Cape police has warned residents to remain vigilant following an increase in extortion scams involving criminals posing as police officers. 

Police say scammers contact victims through phone calls, WhatsApp messages and video calls, falsely claiming that individuals are linked to criminal activities or investigations.

Victims are then intimidated into sharing personal and banking information or transferring money into fraudulent accounts. 

Provincial police reminded the public that legitimate police investigations are never conducted through WhatsApp, video calls or social media platforms.

Residents are urged to report suspicious calls immediately and verify any police-related matters directly with their nearest police station.