Santam has issued several alerts for the 2025/2026 festive season, focusing on a significant rise in AI-driven insurance scams and holiday-specific risks. Dr. Jerry Chetty, Santam’s Head of Business Integrity, warned that fraudsters are increasingly active as people enter “holiday mode” and lower their guard.
Santam’s Major Scam Alerts (Dec 2025)
AI-Generated Phishing: Fraudsters are using tools like “FraudGPT” to create highly convincing emails and messages with perfect grammar.
The “Refund” Email Scam: A specific alert was issued regarding malicious emails claiming to offer a refund that must be “claimed” within 24 to 72 hours. Santam is not offering these refunds.
Fake Premium Discounts: Scammers are sending WhatsApp and email messages offering a “40% discount” on premiums if you click a link to “verify” your details.
Deepfake Impersonation: Criminals are using deepfake technology to mimic the voices and images of trusted figures to lure people into fake insurance or investment schemes.
Vehicle Recovery Scams: In this “opportunistic” scam, after a legitimate vehicle theft claim is settled, a fraudster calls pretending to be a police officer. They claim the car was recovered and demand a “release” or “towing” fee.
Santam’s Festive Season Safety Tips
Santam emphasizes that “vigilance remains the best defense” during the holidays.
Online & Cyber Safety:
The 10-Second Rule: Pause for 10 seconds before clicking any link. This “mindful pausing” helps reactivate logical thinking often suppressed by the urgency or excitement of a scam message.
Verify the Source: If you receive a suspicious call or message from “Santam,” end the interaction immediately. Call them back directly using their official number: 0860 444 444.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Do not conduct banking or insurance transactions on unsecured public networks; use a VPN or mobile data instead.
Home & Property Safety:
Social Media Silence: Avoid posting about your holiday plans or sharing photos while you are still away. This “advertises” your absence to burglars.
Test Your Alarms: Ensure your alarm system and batteries are fully functional before leaving, as faulty equipment may lead to a claim being repudiated.
Unplug and Off: Switch off your geyser and unplug non-essential appliances to prevent damage from power surges during summer storms.
Contact for Verification
If you suspect you have been targeted, you can report it to Santam’s forensic team at forensic.services@santam.co.za or via their 24/7 SOS emergency line at 086 0505 911.