Protecting Beneficiaries SASSA Takes a Stand Against Deceptive Scams

Protecting Beneficiaries SASSA Takes a Stand Against Deceptive Scams. The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) Debunks False Claims on Social Media

Dismissing Deceptive Claims

Sassa is taking action against fraudulent schemes circulating on social media, specifically denouncing a fictitious burial cover offer targeted at eligible individuals.

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Deceptive Social Media Posts

Social media posts have falsely asserted the availability of burial cover through Sassa. One such post stated that individuals under the age of 65 could receive up to R5 million in coverage through a government-regulated program, with premiums starting at 183 a month. This post, however, is completely untrue.

Beware of Grant Scams

In yet another attempt to deceive the public, an illegitimate post claimed that a R700 grant would be introduced in January, with applications open for over 675,000 citizens as part of Sassa’s 2023 budget. These claims are unsubstantiated and misleading.

Advice from SASSA

Sassa spokesperson Paseka Letsatsi cautioned the public last year to be discerning about the source of information and to verify if it’s from Sassa’s official account to avoid falling victim to such scams.

Read Also: Sassa SRD Grant Appeals Increased As Tribunal Deals With Backlog

The Continuation of Scams

The onslaught of scams persists, with several fraudulent job listings emerging on social media, asserting that Sassa has more than 100,000 job vacancies for individuals aged 16 to 35. These deceptive posts offer enticing salary ranges but are entirely false.

False Promises of Grants

Another deceptive post from last year claimed that grant recipients had won substantial sums, up to R85,000, from Sassa. This claim, too, was nothing but a ruse to defraud unsuspecting citizens.

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Sassa Firm Warning

Sassa emphasizes that it is not running any grant promotions or sending SMS messages related to such promotions. Therefore, the public is strongly advised to remain vigilant and cautious when encountering such claims.

Common Sassa Scams to Watch Out For

1. Fake SMS and Emails: Scammers send messages requesting personal details updates, often leading victims to fake Sassa websites to steal sensitive information.
2. Unofficial Card Swaps: Scammers offer help with Sassa card swaps, potentially stealing money or diverting grants.
3. Bogus Officials: Impersonators posing as Sassa officials may ask for fees or personal information under the guise of grant assistance.
4. Loan Offers: Fraudsters may offer loans using Sassa cards as collateral and then withdraw grant funds as “repayment.”
5. Illegal Deductions: Some companies make unauthorized deductions from grant recipients, which can be challenging to stop.
6. ATM and Paypoint Scams: Scammers observe PIN entries at ATMs or paypoints and may steal cards or deceive beneficiaries.
7. Phishing Calls: Individuals impersonating Sassa officials make calls to collect personal information or PINs under false pretenses.
8. Fake Job Offers: Scammers advertise non-existent job opportunities at Sassa, often asking for application or training fees.

Read Also: Reminder Validity Of Expired Sassa Gold Card Extended

Reporting Sassa Fraud Scams

If you suspect any fraudulent activity related to your grant, report it immediately to Sassa. You can submit the necessary documents in person at the post office or via email at [email protected].

Required documents include a completed Sassa fraud affidavit form, a certified copy of your ID, and a certified copy of your Sassa card. The Sassa fraud affidavit forms are available at any Sassa or Post Office. Remain vigilant and cautious to protect yourself from these fraudulent schemes.