Johannesburg, 27 Nov 2003
It appears there is a growing trend for former "corporate gorillas" to really show concern for customers, as well as admitting - especially banks - that their IT systems are not always 100% failsafe, said Christopher Riley, founder of www.crimestop.co.za and CEO of the Pretoria-based notebook and accessories retailer, The Notebook Company (www.notebook.co.za).
"It seems that since the recent Absa fraud scare, banks are being far more humble and customer-focused. Standard Bank, for instance, recently went on radio and warned customers about being careful about selling items by advertising in Junk Mail. It warned customers not to release goods until the cheques had been cleared by the bank as there were a number of incidence of buyers paying with fraudulent cheques.
"Perhaps," he said, "this is ushering in a new era where corporates become less bombastic and more helpful - and humble."
He said consumers should be wary when conducting business with strangers. "Even if a bank cash deposit slip is faxed through to a shop or a personal seller, it must be realised that these deposit slips, or bank transfers, can be fraudulent. Fraudsters can actually create these official looking confirmation slips and then e-mail them or fax them. It is safer to make sure with the actual bank before releasing goods."
Riley said he applauded "seemingly new proactivity" of corporates and said they should strive to continue giving good advice to customers.