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Specialised Security Services (SSS) is dedicated to educating the public about the ever-evolving tactics used by scammers to defraud innocent individuals. As criminals continuously adapt their methods, it is crucial for people to stay informed
and vigilant against various forms of deception.
The primary objective of SSS is to protect the public by exposing a wide range of scams, from financial fraud and online impersonation to investment schemes and cybercrimes. By shedding light on these fraudulent activities, we aim to empower individuals with the knowledge to recognise, avoid, and report scams, ultimately reducing victimisation
and strengthening public safety.
HOW LOFT INSULATION SCAMS WORK
TARGETING VULNERABLE HOMEOWNERS:
Scammers often begin by identifying potential victims, such as elderly individuals, low-income households, or rural residents who may lack access to reliable information.
They might use publicly available data (e.g., municipal records or phone directories) or illegally obtained lists to target homeowners.
They could focus on areas where energy costs are a concern—like townships or suburbs with older homes—or where government energy efficiency programs (e.g., Eskom initiatives) have raised awareness about insulation.
INITIAL CONTACT VIA COLD CALLS, DOOR-TO-DOOR VISITS OR ADS:
The scam often starts with unsolicited contact.
This could be a phone call claiming to be from a "government energy program" or a "local insulation expert," a knock on the door from a supposed surveyor, or even a flyer or social media ad promising "free insulation checks" or "subsidised upgrades."
Scammers might exploit trust in institutions by falsely linking themselves to Eskom, the Department of Energy, or a fake NGO.
CREATING A FALSE PROBLEM:
Once contact is made, scammers convince homeowners there is an urgent issue with their loft insulation.
They might claim that existing insulation (or lack thereof) is "causing dampness," "releasing toxic fibres," or "violating new energy regulations."
They could say, "Your current setup wastes electricity, and with load shedding, you need this fix now!"
They often use fear tactics, suggesting health risks (e.g., respiratory issues) or structural damage to pressure homeowners into acting quickly.
OFFERING A "FREE" OR "SUBSIDISED" INSPECTION:
Scammers offer a "free survey" to assess the loft.
They might arrive in a branded van or wear official-looking uniforms to appear legitimate.
During the inspection, they "find" exaggerated or fabricated problems—e.g., "Your insulation is illegal," "It's causing mould," or "It's outdated and costing you thousands in electricity."
They might show fake photos or use a device to "prove" moisture levels, exploiting homeowners' lack of technical knowledge.
HIGH-PRESSURE SALES PITCH:
After "diagnosing" the issue, the scammer pushes an expensive solution, often spray foam insulation or overpriced ventilation systems.
They might quote prices in the range of R20,000.00 - R50,000.00 (far above market rates of R5,000.00 - R15,000.00 for legitimate insulation), claiming it is a "special deal" or "government-subsidised."
They use urgency tactics like "This offer expires today" or "We're in your area now, so it's cheaper," pressuring homeowners to sign contracts immediately.
INFERIOR QUALITY OR UNNECESSARY WORK:
If the homeowner agrees, the scammers either install substandard materials (e.g., cheap foam that traps moisture instead of insulating) or do no work at all, claiming it is "in progress" or "needs a follow-up."
In South Africa's climate, improper spray foam could worsen dampness in humid regions like KwaZulu-Natal or fail to insulate in colder areas like the Free State, leaving homes worse off.
They demand payment upfront, often in cash, and disappear after receiving it.
CONSEQUENCES FOR VICTIMS:
Homeowners are left with shoddy work, no recourse, and financial loss.
Additional risks might include homes becoming unmortgageable (as some lenders globally reject properties with spray foam due to structural concerns) or victims facing legal disputes with no valid contract.
Scammers might also sell victims' personal details to other fraudsters, leading to further exploitation.
This type of home improvement fraud is where scammers exploit trust, fear, and misinformation to sell unnecessary or overpriced services. In South Africa, these scams capitalise on rising electricity costs, load-shedding concerns, and government efforts to promote energy efficiency (e.g., through the National Energy Efficiency Strategy).
Unlike legitimate insulation providers, these scammers have no interest in improving homes -
they aim to extract money and vanish, often targeting those least able to verify their claims or seek redress.
HOW TO AVOID THESE SCAMS:
BE SCEPTICAL OF UNSOLICITED OFFERS:
Never trust cold calls, unexpected visits, or ads promising "free" or "urgent" services.
Legitimate companies rarely approach customers this way.
VERIFY CREDENTIALS:
Check if the company is registered with the National Consumer Commission (NCC) or a trade body like the Thermal Insulation Association of Southern Africa (TIASA).
Ask for a physical address, contact details, and proof of certification—scammers often dodge these requests.
RESEARCH INDEPENDENTLY:
Contact reputable insulation providers directly (e.g., via TIASA or hardware stores like Builders Warehouse) for quotes and advice.
Avoid relying solely on the scammer's "survey."
AVOID UPFRONT PAYMENTS:
Never pay in full or cash before work is completed and inspected.
Use traceable payment methods like bank cards if possible.
GET MULTIPLE QUOTES:
Obtain at least three quotes from different providers to compare prices and services.
In South Africa, legitimate loft insulation should cost between R50,00.00 - R100,00.00 per square meter, depending on the materials.
CHECK GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS:
Verify claims about subsidies with official sources like Eskom or the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy.
Genuine programs do not involve random cold calls.
PROTECT VULNERABLE RELATIVES:
Warn elderly families or neighbours about these tactics, as they are often targeted.
Consider call-blocking devices or screening their calls.
REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY:
If you encounter a scam, report it to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the NCC, or the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud (CGSO) to prevent others from being victimised.
Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel.
This channel is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.
How to Join the WhatsApp Channel:
1. Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp on your device.
2. Click on the link below to join the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel:
3. Follow the prompts to join the channel.
4. Make sure you click on "Follow", then click on the "bell"-icon (🔔)
CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.
ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.
Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
Mobile: +27 82 447 6116
E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za
Fax: 086 585 4924
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EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.
STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.
POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv
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