Electricity is a basic necessity in every home, but when tampering with meters happens, it puts everyone at risk. In South Africa, meter tampering is not only illegal—it can also be deadly. It can cause electric shocks, fires, and even damage your appliances. Plus, it can cost you a lot of money in fines and back payments. That’s why it’s so important to know what to look for and what to do if you suspect something is wrong.
Why You Should Be Concerned About Meter Tampering
Meter tampering affects more than just the person doing it. It affects the whole community. When people bypass or tamper with their meters, it leads to power failures, higher electricity prices for everyone, and can even damage the power supply system in your area. Eskom and municipalities lose billions of rands every year because of electricity theft. So, let’s look at how you can spot this crime—and stop it.
Signs Your Electricity Meter Might Be Tampered With
Tampering can be physical (visible) or technical (inside the system). Here are the common signs to watch for:
1. Broken or Missing Seals
Electricity meters come with special seals that only the electricity company can open. If the seal is broken or missing, that’s a red flag.
2. Loose or Damaged Covers
A loose bottom cover or visible damage to the meter casing may mean someone tried to open it.
3. Strange Wiring
Look for wires that don’t belong, are hanging loose, or connect in ways that don’t make sense. This is especially suspicious if they bypass the meter.
4. Burn Marks or Melting
Any burn marks or signs of overheating on the meter or wires should not be ignored.
5. Display Issues
If the screen on your meter is blank, or the numbers are running backwards, there could be tampering.
6. “Tamper Mode” Message
Some prepaid meters like Landis+Gyr show a sad face or a specific symbol when tampering is detected. Sometimes they even stop supplying electricity completely.
7. Very Low Usage
If your electricity usage is suddenly much lower than usual without any change in your lifestyle, someone might be interfering with the meter.
8. No Need to Top Up
Prepaid meters should stop supplying electricity when they run out of units. If yours keeps working without top-ups, that’s suspicious.
9. Tenants Refusing Access
If you’re a landlord and your tenants refuse you access to the meter, it might be because something shady is going on.
What to Do If You Suspect Meter Tampering
1. Don’t Try to Fix It Yourself
Never open or fix the meter yourself. It’s dangerous and can lead to serious injury or death.
2. Report It Immediately
If you’re a tenant, tell your landlord. If you’re the owner, report it to your electricity supplier like Eskom or your local municipality. You can also contact Citiq Prepaid if you have one of their meters.
3. Let a Qualified Electrician Inspect It
Only a registered electrician or official from the municipality should inspect or work on the meter. They will also record the tampering for legal purposes.
4. Prepare for Possible Consequences
Tampering with a meter is a serious crime. If found guilty, you can face:
Fines up to R100,000
Immediate disconnection from the power supply
Criminal charges and a permanent record
Being charged for all the stolen electricity
How to Prevent Meter Tampering
Check your meter regularly for signs of tampering.
Report anyone in your area who you suspect is bypassing their meter.
Allow inspections when Eskom or the municipality does routine checks.
Join community meetings and awareness programs about electricity safety.
Check also: How Many Units of Free Basic Electricity Do You Get per Month?
Electricity meter tampering is a serious issue in South Africa. It’s not just illegal—it’s dangerous and unfair to those who pay for electricity. By knowing the signs and acting quickly, you can protect your home, your family, and your community. Remember, report it—don’t ignore it!
