Durban — The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA) has alerted the public to a fake Facebook account and WhatsApp messaging alert purporting to be MEC Siboniso Duma.
EDTEA spokesperson Malusi Mchunu said that a Facebook page with pictures of the MEC is fake and did not represent the MEC.
“MEC Duma does not currently have a social media page, his office will be unveiling his official page on Monday, September 26,” Mchunu said.
“All posts or social media messages (inboxes and comments before that) to date should be characterised as fake news and imposter activities.
“The Office of the MEC is also alerted to fake WhatsApp conversations. The MEC only has one number used for telephone and messaging communication and it does not correspond with the imposter’s chat number.
“Mr Duma’s social media page will be administered by credible content managers and members of his team. In that light, there will be no inbox activities or personalised messages to the public,” Mchunu said.
He said that all messages and communication with respect to the MEC will represent the person and integrity of the MEC.
“Please be alert, vigilant and cautious about any fake social media trails that purport to be from the MEC,” Mchunu said.
This was not the first time there were concerns about a fake Facebook page purporting to be Duma.
Days after he was elected as the new ANC KZN chairperson, opportunists created a fake Facebook account purporting to be Duma.
The ANC KZN condemned the fake Facebook account that has been floating on social media platforms.
The new leadership placed it on record that the new chairperson did not have a social media page or account, and therefore the information contained in that account is fabricated, misleading and devoid of any truth.
ANC KZN further advised the public to refrain from entertaining any communication or exchange from any suspicious accounts.
Daily News