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The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has officially launched its verified WhatsApp channel—SASSA_OFFICIAL—as part of its efforts to enhance communication, improve service delivery, and combat growing misinformation around grants and social support.
Announced via their official Facebook page, SASSA urged the public to follow their WhatsApp Channel to receive real-time updates, announcements, and factual information directly on their mobile phones. The WhatsApp channel is available via this link, and already has over 100 followers.
“This official channel is where you can get accurate and credible information about SASSA programs and services, anywhere and anytime,” reads the statement from the agency.
The launch comes at a time when fake news websites from outside South Africa, including those based in Pakistan and India, have been spreading misinformation about SASSA grants and payment dates to mislead and exploit grant beneficiaries. Concerned citizens have taken to the comments section, with some calling for a clearer plan from SASSA to deal with false content being published internationally.
On official SASSA Facebook page Quan Dambuza, asked:
“What is your plan about these fake websites from Pakistan, India and other parts of the world writing SASSA stories and misinformation?”
The WhatsApp initiative is seen as a direct response to such concerns, offering a trusted alternative to third-party news sites. It also allows SASSA to alert the public instantly about grant payment dates, eligibility criteria, scams, and changes in regulations.
SASSA encourages all beneficiaries and South African residents to join the channel to stay updated and avoid being misled by unofficial sources. The WhatsApp feature is accessible on both Android and iOS, requiring users to opt in by following the provided link or scanning the official QR code from SASSA social platforms.
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