For several days now, a carefully orchestrated scam is circulating on social networks and messaging platforms, targeting Togolese citizens. Indeed, a false communiqué attributed to the Office Togolais des Recettes (OTR) and its Commissioner General, Mr Philippe Kokou B. TCHODIE, announces an alleged vehicle auction scheduled for December 14, 2024 at a Lomé port site.
A well-honed stratagem
To make their operation credible, the scammers have falsified the OTR's letterhead, logo and signature. The message urges potential buyers to contact a so-called customs customer service via WhatsApp. To take part in this so-called sale, victims are asked to send a copy of their ID and pay a registration fee of 100,000 FCFA by mobile money.
A fake Facebook profile in the name of Commissaire Général Philippe Kokou B. TCHODIE has also been created to reinforce the legitimacy of this scam.
OTR categorically denies
Faced with this situation, the OTR was keen to clarify the facts. The institution affirms that no auction of this type has been organized. It points out that all its official communications are published exclusively via its usual, verified channels. The OTR warns citizens against these fraudulent practices, and urges them not to respond to the solicitations of these criminals, nor to transfer any money.
Call for vigilance
As well as attempting to extract funds, this scam seeks to collect sensitive personal information, exposing victims to the risk of identity theft. The OTR recommends that all suspicious contacts should be reported immediately, and that only official announcements should be used for any transactions relating to tax or customs administration.
For any questions or clarifications, citizens are invited to contact the OTR directly via its offices or official communication lines.
Caution: remain vigilant and don't let scammers take advantage of your trust.
The defender
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