As millions of South Africans rely on social grants to survive each month, scammers continue to target SASSA beneficiaries with new and evolving tactics. These fraudsters prey on desperation and confusion—costing many their much-needed grant money.
Pondoland Times has compiled a list of 10 common scams that grant recipients—especially the elderly and vulnerable—should be aware of. These threats are based on recent community reports, verified warnings from SASSA, and local police investigations.
- Fake SASSA SMS Messages
Scammers send SMSs claiming your grant is “blocked” or “expired” and request you to click a link or call a number. These are not from SASSA. Never click suspicious links or give personal details over the phone.
- ATM Assistance Traps
Criminals pose as helpful strangers near ATMs—especially during grant payout days. Once they “help” you, they swap cards or shoulder-surf your PIN. Always reject help from strangers and cover your keypad.
- Bogus SASSA Agents
Fraudsters visit homes pretending to be SASSA officials. They offer to “fast-track” applications or deliver food parcels—for a fee. SASSA never asks for payment and does not do unannounced house visits.
- Fake Reapplication Links
Many SRD R370 grant beneficiaries are duped by fake websites claiming to offer status checks or reapplication portals. Always use srd.sassa.gov.za for official updates.
- WhatsApp Scams
Messages circulate on WhatsApp promising free food parcels, special payouts, or funeral cover “funded by SASSA.” These scams often include links that steal your data or infect your device.
- “Approved but Not Paid” Scams
Scammers pose as insiders and offer to “fix” unpaid grants for a fee. Remember: only SASSA processes grants, and there’s no way to “speed up” your payout.
- Phishing Emails
Emails with SASSA logos may claim your grant is suspended or that your details are outdated. These are fake. SASSA does not communicate via email for status updates.
- Card Collection Fraud
Some criminals offer to collect SASSA cards on behalf of recipients in rural areas. These cards are then cloned or used fraudulently. Never hand your SASSA card to anyone.
- Social Media Impersonation
Facebook pages claiming to be “SASSA Helpdesk” or “Grant Advisors” lure users into inbox conversations—requesting ID numbers, bank details, or payments. Always verify official pages via sassa.gov.za.
- Loan Shark Card Swaps
Loan sharks illegally take SASSA cards as “guarantee” for small loans. Some never return the cards or overcharge on interest. This practice is illegal—report such cases immediately.
What Should You Do?
- Report scams to SASSA’s toll-free fraud hotline: 0800 60 10 11
- Check your status only at: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Protect your card, PIN, and ID details
- Inform elders and community members about the latest scams
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