BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MBABANE– Silence may be giving online scammers more room to operate, as the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM) has urged Emaswati to put embarrassment aside and report cases of online fraud to the authorities.
The commission says reporting scams is not only about seeking justice for individual victims, but can also help police connect separate cases, identify repeat offenders and ultimately close in on criminal networks.
Speaking during an interview on Eswatini TV’s Kusile Breakfast Show on 27 August 2026, ESCCOM Manager of Consumer Fair and Communications Officer Fisiwe Vilane said many victims hesitate to report after being scammed because they fear being judged.
Vilane said some people may feel embarrassed to admit that they have been deceived, particularly when they believe their education or experience should have protected them from falling victim.
However, she stressed that reporting remains crucial because scammers often target several people using similar methods.
“We do encourage Emaswati to just report, and we will be teaching more around cybersecurity at the trade fair,” Vilane said.
According to Vilane, a single report can help law enforcement identify links between seemingly unrelated incidents. She explained that a person who has scammed one victim may have already targeted several others, making every report an important piece of information for investigators.
She also encouraged Emaswati to remain alert to suspicious activity on their mobile phones and recognise warning signs that something may be wrong before engaging with questionable messages, links, calls or offers.
The commission believes that increased awareness and timely reporting can help reduce the impact of online scams as technology becomes increasingly embedded in everyday life.
Vilane said ESCCOM will use the 58th Eswatini International Trade Fair (EITF) as a platform to further educate the public on cybersecurity. The commission will be part of the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology’s Pavilion Five, where visitors will be able to engage with officials, share their experiences and receive guidance on digital safety.
The trade fair runs from 29 August to 6 September 2026 at the Mavuso Sports Centre in Manzini.
ESCCOM’s message is simple: being scammed is nothing to be ashamed of, but failing to report it could allow criminals to target more victims.
As more Emaswati embrace digital services, the commission is calling for greater vigilance, open reporting and responsible use of technology to create a safer digital environment.
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(Courtesy Pic)
