SASSA Fraud Awareness

SASSA fraud comes in many forms, all designed to exploit vulnerable beneficiaries. Common types include ATM fraud, card fraud and skimming, and cheque fraud, where criminals use stolen cards or fake cheques to access funds. Identity theft is another serious issue, with fraudsters impersonating beneficiaries to collect grants. Internet and cellphone banking fraud, including unauthorized account changes, has become increasingly common. Recognizing these frauds can help beneficiaries protect their funds.

how to avoid fraud in SASSA?

Identity theft

Identity theft takes place when an individual engages in fraudulent activities by acquiring your information such as your identification number, banking details and utilizes this details to access your SASSA benefits.

How to Protect Yourself?

Your personal documents such as your ID and SASSA card should be secure at all times, and avoid sharing these documents with anyone.

Always keep track of your activities regarding your account and your bank statements to ensure that your dats is not being misused.

ATM fraud

ATM fraud takes place when criminals use stolen bank cards to withdraw funds from accounts of beneficiaries. The fraudster might gather its information using skimming devices installed on ATMs.

Tips

  • Do not listen to strangers offering to help you; they could be trying to distract you while trying to acquire your card or PIN.
  • Follow the instructions on the ATM screen carefully.
  • Inform the Bank about suspicious-looking items or characters around ATMs.
  • Immediately report lost or stolen SASSA cards to SASSA.

Numbers for reporting ATM issues

ABSA0800 111 155
AFRICAN BANK0861 000 555
ALBARAKA BANK0860 225 5786
CAPITEC BANK0860 102 043
FNB0800 110 132
INVESTEC BANK011 286 9663
NEDBANK0800 110 925
STANDARD BANK0800 020 600
SA POST OFFICE (POST BANK)0800 535 455
TYMEDIGITAL087 287 8833
CITIBANK1800 950 5114

Change bank details scam

This scam involves an unsuspecting individual receiving an email that claims a specific supplier has update bank account information. The communication will provide new account details and instruct recipient to direct future payments to this account. However, these details are fraudulent, resulting in funds being sent to the scammer instead of the legitimate supplier.

  • Do not give your banking details to strangers or to anyone over phone.
  • Always verify with SASSA directly on official contact points using any requests for account changes.
  • Look into your accounts regularly to ensure that bank details have not been changed secretly.

Deposit and Refund Scams

In this scams, person trick individuals into paying a “deposit” for services related to their SASSA grant, or they promise a “refund” for overpaid amounts. In reality, no refund is given, and scammer simply takes money.

How to Protect Yourself?

  • Always verify legitimacy of any “refund” or “deposit” offers with SASSA.
  • Be wary of anyone asking for money before providing a service.
  • Report any suspicious refund or deposit requests to SASSA immediately.