For many Zimbabweans and Mozambicans, having a South African bank account is more than just paperwork.
It’s a ticket to smoother cross-border trade, easier remittances, and access to services that are not always available back home.
But what looks like a dream opportunity has now turned into a trap. Fraudsters cash in on people’s hopes with a new scam.
How the Scam Plays Out
The scheme is simple but devastating. Criminals pretending to be linked to FNB are offering South African business accounts to non-residents. They use fake or stolen documents to make it all look official, convincing people to pay for accounts that don’t really exist.
The scam works because it touches on a real problem. Many small traders in Harare, Bulawayo, Maputo, and Beira need South African accounts to pay suppliers or receive money from clients. Without that access, they’re often forced to rely on expensive and risky alternatives.
FNB responds to the scam
FNB has distanced itself from these operations. They stress that the bank does not run branches in Zimbabwe and that anyone promising to sell accounts outside official channels is a scammer.
“We are most concerned about the misuse of our brand,” said Roshan Jelal, Head of Fraud at FNB Commercial Chief Risk Office.
He urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
Have you seen these FNB account offers?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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