SASSA scams target grant beneficiaries through SMS, WhatsApp messages, phone calls and fake websites. Fraudsters typically promise extra payments, refunds, double grants or quicker approval in exchange for personal details, banking information or a fee. SASSA scams are growing as more beneficiaries receive payments through digital channels. SASSA will never ask for a fee, a PIN or a one-time password.
Common SASSA scams to watch for
- SMS or WhatsApp messages promising a grant refund or extra payment
- Fake websites that mimic the SASSA portal and ask for your ID and banking details
- Calls from someone claiming to be from SASSA asking for your PIN
- Messages offering to speed up an appeal in exchange for a fee
- Private agents charging to help with grant applications
- Card-swap scams at ATMs or retailers
How SASSA actually communicates
- Official SMS sender ID: 1105010 (used for SRD grant status)
- Official toll-free helpline: 0800 60 10 11
- Official WhatsApp line: 082 046 8553
- Official websites: sassa.gov.za and srd.sassa.gov.za
- Official email: [email protected]
If a message did not come from one of these channels, treat it as a SASSA scam.
Red flags of a SASSA scam
- Urgent language demanding you act within minutes or hours
- Requests for your PIN, OTP, full ID number combined with banking details
- Links to unfamiliar websites (the official URL is sassa.gov.za, nothing else)
- Promises of money in exchange for “verification” or a small fee
- Spelling errors in messages claiming to be from SASSA
If you have been scammed
- Call SASSA fraud hotline on 0800 701 701 or email [email protected]
- If banking details were shared, call your bank’s fraud line immediately
- Open a SAPS case at your nearest police station and request a case number
- Take the case number to your nearest SASSA office
- Change your PIN and report any unauthorised transactions
Sources
About this article
Nuusflits is a South African news publication covering current affairs, social grants and consumer information. This article is sourced from official primary sources, including the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the Department of Social Development, the National Treasury and SAnews. Facts are verified against the published 2026/27 social grant schedule and current SASSA policy. Last updated 21 May 2026.
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