SASSA warns against festive season fraud and scams

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) have warned beneficiaries and clients against fraud and scams, especially over the festive season.

If you receive a social grant, then you might also become a target for criminals and fraudsters who would like that money for themselves.

Grant fraud can be heightened over the holidays, counting on the idea that people might lower their guard during the festivities.

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Here’s what to know about festive season fraud, and how to report criminals and fraudsters.

SASSA warns against festive season fraud and scams

The social grant agency has warned against festive season fraud and scams, which are expected to rise over the holidays as criminals become more desperate to find targets and victims.

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Scams could lure victims to a fake website that steals information or card details, and some social grant crimes involve stealing someone’s social grant card – or SASSA money.

If you are not getting access to your rightful social grant, it means that you could be the victim of a crime.

SASSA: Festive season fraud and scams

Fraud and scams are at a height over the festive season, and grant recipients are cautioned to be aware of anyone who might want to steal their grant money (or card).

ALSO READ: SASSA Reminder: All the important links for social grants

Spending your grant could also put you in the crosshairs of fraudsters, who might follow their victims; never go alone when collecting your social grant, or when drawing the money.

More about social grant fraud

Social grant fraud has been a problem for grant recipients for years, with SASSA warning against scammers back in 2019.

ALSO READ: SASSA Reminder: All the important links for social grants

Anywhere false information claims a social grant, or someone else’s social grant is stolen or misappropriated, there has been a crime.

Beneficiaries and others are encouraged to report grant crime and fraud to the authorities, including to SAPS.

Where to contact them

If you want to contact the social grant agency with questions or queries, a website link here can take you to an online contact form.

There’s also the national call centre, which can put you in touch with the right department at +27 80 060 1011.

READ MORE ARTICLES BY FRANCOIS JANSEN (‘ALEX J’)