Fake Journalists Target Public Figures in Extortion Scam

A growing number of scammers posing as H-Metro journalists are allegedly attempting to extort money from individuals by threatening to publish fabricated or sensational stories.

In a recent case, a Member of Parliament from Harare became the target of one such fraudster. The impersonator claimed to be a reporter from H-Metro and alleged that he had damaging information about the MP’s alleged extramarital relationship.

According to the legislator—who requested anonymity—the fake journalist claimed the supposed exposé could ruin his reputation and political career unless a payment was made to suppress the story.

“He told me everything would go away if I paid US$500. That’s when I knew something was off and that it was an attempt to extort me,” the MP said. “He used a private number, so I couldn’t call him back.”

H-Metro’s editor, Robson Sharuko, confirmed that this was not an isolated case. He said the publication continues to receive reports of individuals pretending to be their reporters, often using fake names.

“These bogus journalists have taken their schemes to alarming levels,” Sharuko said. “We keep hearing from people who were approached by individuals claiming to have scandalous information and demanding money to kill the story.”

He urged the public to verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent H-Metro, warning that several victims have already been duped by these impersonators.

“What’s especially concerning is that these scammers are damaging our brand and financially exploiting innocent people,” Sharuko added.

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