Residents warned of bogus meter readers
Fake meter readers have been posing as eThekwini Municipality staff, trying to gain access to homes and rob residents. The municipality said residents need to be alert and always ask for the meter reader’s identity card before allowing them into their homes.
This follows an incident at a home in Durban, where a bogus meter reader tried to gain entry to a resident’s home. He ended up running away leaving behind his clipboard, which he carried to make it seem as if he were an “official” meter reader, said eThekwini Municiaplity communications head, Ms Lindiwe Khuzwayo.
The eThekwini Municipality would like to warn residents to beware of individuals posing as meter readers who are operating in and around the city and are attempting to enter residents’ homes, said Ms Khuzwayo. She added that people must insist on seeing the identity cards of people who claim to be representing the municipality.
“We urge residents to refrain from letting anyone into their property without proper identification. If the individual does not produce a legitimate identity card, they should not be allowed to access the property,” said Ms Khuzwayo.
The identity card will have the following details: a picture of the individual; the municipal logo; validity period; full name of the individual and their identity number.
Ms Khuzwayo encouraged residents to utilise online alternatives to submitting meter readings, such as email or the e-Services portal or the new eThekwini App.
“Self -service methods are not just quick and convenient but will also safeguard residents against allowing any strangers gaining access into their homes,” said Ms Khuzwayo.
On the app and the e-Services portal, customers can update their account information, capture electricity and water meter readings, view their utility bill online and can also pay for their services using the Masterpass functionality.
To register on e-Services, send an email to online.bills@durban.gov.za with your account number and attach a copy of your ID/ Company registration documents and letter of authority (if you are not the account holder). You can also log on to https://eservices.durban.gov.za/v2/ to register. Customers need to be registered for e-services to access their account on the app.
