SOCU warns public about fraudsters posing as DHL, Samsung executives

The Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) is alerting the public to a rising wave of online scams involving individuals impersonating high-ranking executives from major international companies.
According to SOCU, these fraudsters are pretending to be John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express, and Anthony Hodgson, General Manager of Samsung Co Ltd, in an elaborate scheme aimed at extracting personal and financial information from unsuspecting victims.
The scammers, SOCU explained, entice people with false promises of prize money, claiming the prizes are being distributed on behalf of DHL Express and Samsung. However, SOCU has made it clear that “DHL Express and Samsung Co Ltd do not have any current promotions ongoing. Hence, no prize monies will be issued.”
SOCU is urging members of the public to exercise caution and skepticism. “If it is too good to be true, it is not true,” the Unit advised. They warn individuals to be particularly wary of any claims suggesting they have won prizes for competitions they never entered.
Further, SOCU emphasised that legitimate prize offers never require upfront payments or personal information.
“Do not provide personal or financial information to individuals or businesses you don’t know or haven’t verified,” SOCU stated, adding that it is equally important not to send money to strangers under any circumstances.
The public is also being advised against attempting to recover funds or engage with companies they have not directly interacted with. SOCU’s warning serves as a reminder to remain vigilant against such fraudulent schemes and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities immediately.
This warning comes on the heels of growing concerns about online scams in Guyana. In August, Vice President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo issued a similar caution about phishing operations targeting citizens. Speaking at a press conference, Jagdeo described these scams as Ponzi schemes designed to lure individuals into fraudulent investments with promises of high returns.
“It is a scam thing going about,” Jagdeo said. “Please don’t fall prey. They are Ponzi schemes designed to hook you in.” He further warned that individuals who lose money to these schemes should not hold the Government accountable.
“If you are stupid and you put your money and they go with your money, don’t blame the Government,” the Vice President remarked bluntly, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility.
As online scams continue to evolve, SOCU and Government officials are urging the public to remain vigilant, avoid unsolicited offers, and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.