Hey future go-getters! We know you’re super eager to find your dream learnership or bursary, and that’s awesome! But here’s a super important heads-up from Bursaries Room: there are scams out there trying to trick you. Recently, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) issued a major warning about a *fake* traffic officer learnership ad circulating on TikTok. Let’s talk about it, so you can stay safe and focus on finding those *real* opportunities!
Who Needs to Be Aware?
Basically, everyone looking for a learnership, internship, or bursary in South Africa needs to keep their eyes peeled! Scammers love to target eager job and study seekers, especially online. The RTMC specifically warned about an ad for a traffic officer learnership popping up on platforms like TikTok. So, if you’ve seen or heard about anything like this, or are dreaming of a career in traffic management, this message is for you!
What Do These Scams Promise?
These fake ads often promise exciting opportunities – like a traffic officer learnership – but they’re completely bogus and designed to exploit you. The RTMC confirmed that the ad in question was NOT published by them. These fraudsters aim to get bribes or personal information by preying on people’s hopes. They often claim there’s a “processing fee” or some kind of payment needed to “secure” your spot. Remember, genuine organisations like the RTMC will NEVER ask for money for applications or interviews!
These unethical and criminal activities don’t just give real organisations a bad name; they cause real financial and emotional harm to innocent people. The RTMC is all about honesty, transparency, and equal opportunity, and they strongly condemn anyone trying to take advantage of others.
How to Verify and Stay Safe?
Staying safe online is key! Here’s how you can protect yourself and ensure you’re applying for legitimate opportunities:
- Always Check Official Sources: The RTMC wants you to know that all their real job opportunities, learnerships, and internships are only advertised on their official website and other reputable publications. If you see an ad somewhere else, especially on social media, be super suspicious!
- No Fees, Ever: A golden rule: if an “application” or “interview” asks you for money, it’s a scam. Reputable organisations don’t charge you to apply.
- Verify Directly: If something looks fishy, don’t click on links in the ad. Instead, go directly to the official organisation’s website (like www.rtmc.co.za for the RTMC) or contact them using their official contact details.
The RTMC has provided these direct contact details to help you verify information:
- Official Website: www.rtmc.co.za
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 0861 400 800
Stay watchful, double-check everything, and never share personal information or make payments unless you are 100% sure it’s a legitimate opportunity.
Your dream bursary or learnership is out there, but so are the scammers! If you come across any suspicious ads or get asked for money, remember the tips above. Stay smart, stay safe, and always verify directly with the official organisation. Keep exploring real, verified bursaries right here on Bursaries Room, and let’s fund your future the safe way!
