By PWM | March 2026

Important Notice – Impersonation Scam

We have identified fraudulent activity involving individuals impersonating PWM Wealth Management and members of our team.

These individuals are using messaging platforms, social media and other digital channels to falsely present themselves as PWM representatives, attempting to solicit funds or promote unauthorised investment opportunities.

Important Facts

  • These individuals are not authorised under the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act (FAIS) to provide financial advice or intermediary services.
  • PWM has no association with these individuals, accounts or communications.
  • Fraudsters may use our branding, logos and publicly available images to appear legitimate.

Our Response

  • The matter has been reported to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA).
  • PWM is actively monitoring the situation and taking steps to protect our clients and brand integrity.

Please Take Note

  • PWM will never request funds, banking details or instructions via:
    • Telegram
    • WhatsApp
    • Social media
    • Unsolicited communication
  • All investment advice follows a formal, regulated process, including:
    • Documented financial needs analysis
    • Appropriate due diligence
    • Signed investment mandate
  • PWM is an authorised Financial Services Provider (FSP) operating in full compliance with FAIS and applicable regulations.

Stay Vigilant

If contacted by anyone claiming to represent PWM:

  • Do not transfer funds or share personal information
  • Verify directly with your PWM financial planner using confirmed contact details

Your Security Matters

The financial well-being and security of our clients remain our highest priority.

PWM have a dedicated reporting channel: pwm@privatewealth.co.za

FAQ

How to verify your financial planner? 

  • Use official contact details only
    • Contact your financial planner via the email, phone number or office details provided in your original PWM onboarding documentation
  • Verify their FSP authorisation:
    • Confirm PWM is listed as an authorised Financial Services Provider on the FSCA register
    • Ask for the financial planner’s FSP licence details it can be confirmed on FSCA website
  • Check communication channels:
    • PWM financial planners will not use Telegram, WhatsApp or social media to provide advice or request funds
    • Be cautious of any unsolicited messages
  • Validate documentation
    • Ensure all advice is supported by:
      • A financial needs analysis
      • A formal proposal or report
      • A signed investment mandate
  • Confirm before acting:
    • If unsure, pause and confirm directly with PWM using trusted contact details before taking any action

What to do if you have already shared information?

  • Act immediately to protect yourself
    • Contact your bank or financial institution to flag potential fraud and secure your accounts
  • Stop all communication
    • Do not engage further with the suspected individual or account
  • Report the incident
    • Notify PWM immediately using a verified contact channel
    • Report to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) if required
  • Secure your information
    • Change passwords for:
      • Email accounts
      • Financial platforms
      • Any affected systems
    • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible
  • Monitor your accounts
    • Check for any unauthorised transactions or activity
    • Report suspicious activity immediately
  • Document the interaction
    • Keep:
      • Screenshots
      • Messages
      • Email correspondence
    • This supports investigation and reporting
Always verify before acting and act immediately if something feels wrong.