Alert: Scammers Pushing Fake R700 SASSA Grants on WhatsApp

Beware of Scammers!

Yho, South Africans! Be on high alert, fam! Scammers are on the prowl, spreading fake news about R700 SASSA grants on WhatsApp. These tricksters are trying to swindle you out of your hard-earned cash and personal info.

Don’t fall for their trap! SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) has not announced any such grant, and these messages are just a ploy to get you to share your details or pay a “processing fee”.

Stay woke, and don’t let these scammers get the better of you! Keep your guard up and your info safe, and remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

The Scam: How It Works

Here’s how these scammers are trying to swindle you, bru:

1. You receive a message: Scammers send you a WhatsApp message claiming to be from SASSA, saying you’re eligible for a R700 grant.
2. They ask for your info: The message asks you to share your personal details, like your ID number, address, and banking information.
3. They promise a “processing fee”: The scammers claim that you need to pay a “processing fee” to access the grant, which is actually just a way for them to get their hands on your cash.
4. They use fake SASSA logos and links: To make their message look legit, they use fake SASSA logos and links that look like they’re from the real SASSA website.
5. They try to create a sense of urgency: The scammers might say that the grant is only available for a limited time, trying to get you to act fast without thinking twice.
6. They’re just trying to get your money: The ultimate goal is to get your personal info and your money, so they can use it for their own gain.

Don’t fall for it, china! SASSA will never ask you to pay a fee to access a grant, and they’ll never ask for your personal info via WhatsApp. Stay safe and stay informed!

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Here are the red flags to watch out for, sista:

1. Urgent or threatening language: If the message creates a sense of panic, saying you’ll miss out on the grant if you don’t act now, it’s likely a scam.
2. Spelling and grammar mistakes: Scammers often don’t take the time to proofread, so if the message is full of errors, it’s a red flag.
3. Fake SASSA logos and branding: If the logo or branding looks off or doesn’t match the real SASSA website, it’s a scam.
4. Requests for personal info: SASSA will never ask for your personal info, like your ID number or banking details, via WhatsApp or email.
5. Asking for money: If they’re asking you to pay a “processing fee” or any other kind of payment, it’s a scam.
6. Suspicious links or attachments: Don’t click on any links or download any attachments from unfamiliar sources, as they might contain malware.
7. Unofficial contact numbers: If the message provides a contact number that’s not the official SASSA helpline, it’s likely a scam.
8. No official SASSA email or SMS: SASSA will never contact you via email or SMS to offer you a grant. If you’re eligible, they’ll contact you officially through the post or their website.

If you spot any of these red flags, don’t respond or engage, just delete the message and report it to SASSA immediately!

Don’t Fall for the Trap: Warning Signs

Here are the warning signs to watch out for, bru:

1. Too good to be true: If the message promises a grant that sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Unsolicited messages: If you didn’t apply for a grant, why are you receiving a message about one?
3. Lack of personalization: If the message doesn’t address you by your name, it’s likely a mass scam attempt.
4. Poor grammar and spelling: Scammers often don’t take the time to proofread, so if the message is full of errors, it’s a red flag.
5. No official SASSA channels: If the message didn’t come from the official SASSA website, email, or helpline, it’s likely a scam.
6. Asking for money upfront: SASSA will never ask you to pay a fee to access a grant.
7. Threats and urgency: If the message creates a sense of panic, saying you’ll miss out if you don’t act now, it’s a scam.
8. No clear contact information: If the message doesn’t provide clear contact information or a official SASSA helpline, it’s a red flag.
9. Suspicious attachments or links: Don’t click on any links or download attachments from unfamiliar sources.
10. Your instincts: If something feels off or doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and delete the message.

Remember, SASSA will never contact you out of the blue with a grant offer. If you’re eligible, they’ll reach out to you through official channels. Stay safe and stay informed!

SASSA’s Official Statement: Separating Fact from Fiction

Here’s what SASSA has to say, sista:

• SASSA will never contact you via WhatsApp or email to offer you a grant. If you’re eligible, they’ll reach out to you through the post or their official website.
• SASSA will never ask you to pay a fee to access a grant. Grants are free, and you don’t need to pay a cent to get one.
• SASSA will never ask for your personal information, like your ID number or banking details, via WhatsApp or email. If you need to provide this info, it’ll be through a secure and official channel.
• SASSA has not announced any R700 grant. If you see a message about this, it’s a scam!
• SASSA’s official website is (link unavailable). Don’t click on any other links or websites claiming to be SASSA.
• SASSA’s official helpline is 0800 60 10 11. If you need help or have questions, call this number, not any other number you receive in a message.
• SASSA will never threaten you or create a sense of urgency to get a grant. If you’re eligible, they’ll let you know in a calm and official manner.

Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Always check the official SASSA channels for info, and don’t fall for scams!

Protect Yourself: Tips to Avoid Being Scammed

Here’s how to keep yourself safe, bru:

• Verify the source: Make sure the message or email is from an official SASSA channel. Check the website, email, or phone number to ensure it’s legit.
• Don’t click on suspicious links: If a link looks fishy or doesn’t match the official SASSA website, don’t click on it!
• Watch out for spelling and grammar mistakes: Scammers often don’t proofread, so if the message is full of errors, it’s likely a scam.
• Don’t give out personal info: SASSA will never ask for your ID number, banking details, or other personal info via WhatsApp or email.
• Don’t pay a fee: Grants are free, and you don’t need to pay a cent to get one.
• Be cautious of urgent messages: If a message creates a sense of panic, saying you’ll miss out if you don’t act now, it’s likely a scam.
• Use strong passwords and keep them safe: Make sure your passwords are hard to guess and don’t share them with anyone.
• Keep your phone and computer secure: Make sure your devices have the latest security updates and use antivirus software.
• Report suspicious messages: If you receive a suspicious message, report it to SASSA immediately!
• Stay informed: Keep an eye on the official SASSA website and social media for updates and warnings about scams.

Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry! If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and avoid interacting with the message or email.

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted

If you’ve been targeted by these scammers, don’t stress, sista! Here’s what to do:

1. Stay calm: Take a deep breath and don’t panic. Scammers want you to act fast, but you shouldn’t.
2. Don’t respond or engage: Don’t reply to the message or call the number. You’ll only give them more info to use against you.
3. Report it to SASSA: Immediately report the incident to SASSA’s official helpline (0800 60 10 11) or email them ([email protected]).
4. Change your passwords: If you’ve clicked on a link or given out personal info, change your passwords for all your accounts.
5. Run a virus scan: Check your device for malware or viruses.
6. Monitor your accounts: Keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity.
7. Report to the police: If you’ve lost money or sensitive info, report it to the police and get a case number.
8. Warn others: Share your experience with friends and family to help them avoid the same scam.

Remember, you didn’t do anything wrong, and you’re not alone. Take action, and don’t let scammers get away with it!

Reporting Scammers: Let’s Take Action Together

Let’s report these scammers and put a stop to their tricks, bru! Here’s how:

• SASSA Fraud Hotline: Call 0800 60 10 11 to report any suspicious activity or potential scams.
• SASSA Email: Send an email to [email protected] with all the details of the scam.
• South African Police Service (SAPS): Report the incident to your local police station or call 10111.
• Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC): Report suspicious financial activity to the FIC on 0860 308 440.
• National Consumer Commission (NCC): Report scams related to consumer goods and services to the NCC on 0860 266 786.
• Internet Service Provider (ISP): Report suspicious emails or websites to your ISP’s abuse department.
• Social Media Platforms: Report fake SASSA social media accounts and posts to the platform’s support team.
• SASSA Website: Report any suspicious activity or potential scams to SASSA through their official website.

Remember, reporting scammers is our collective responsibility! Let’s work together to stop these scams and keep our personal info safe!