If you come across a message, link, or social media post urging you to apply for a Postbank Black Card online, delete it immediately. This is a scam designed to steal your personal information or defraud you.
How the Scam Works
Scammers create fake websites or social media ads claiming that the Postbank Black Card is available online and that SASSA Gold Cards will soon stop working. They include a fraudulent link and ask unsuspecting users to “apply” by entering their details.
Once you click the link and submit your information, scammers may:
- Steal your personal details (ID number, banking info, phone number, etc.).
- Commit identity fraud in your name.
- Attempt to access your bank accounts.
- Ask you to pay unnecessary fees for a card that does not exist.
The Truth About the Postbank Black Card
The real Postbank Black Card:
- Can only be collected in person at official Postbank outlets.
- Is never issued online—no legitimate application process requires you to fill out forms on an unknown website.
- Is free to obtain and does not require upfront payments.
If someone asks you to apply online, they are trying to scam you.
Latest News: Deadline for SASSA Card Transition Extended
Common Signs of a Scam
Scammers often use tricks to deceive people. Be cautious of:
- Urgency or pressure – Messages that tell you to “apply immediately” or “before your benefits are stopped.”
- Poor grammar and spelling mistakes – Official government or banking institutions do not make obvious language errors.
- Unusual website links – Official Postbank or SASSA websites end in .gov.za or postbank.co.za, not strange domains like fast-wayprogram.org.
- Requests for personal information – No legitimate financial institution will ask for your banking details over WhatsApp, Facebook, or random websites.
- Fake social media pages – Scammers create lookalike Facebook pages pretending to be Postbank or SASSA. Always verify official accounts.
How to Protect Yourself
- Ignore and delete any such messages.
- Do not click on suspicious links.
- Never share your personal information with unverified sources.
- Report scam messages to Postbank or relevant authorities.
- Check official sources (Postbank or SASSA website) for updates on banking services.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a Postbank Black Card online?
No. The Postbank Black Card is only issued in person at Postbank branches. There is no online application process. Any website claiming otherwise is a scam.
2. Do I need to replace my SASSA Gold Card with a Postbank Black Card?
As of now, SASSA has not announced any mandatory replacement of the Gold Card. Always check official SASSA and Postbank sources for updates.
3. What happens if I already entered my details on a scam website?
If you entered your personal or banking details on a suspicious website:
- Immediately contact your bank to secure your account.
- Report the scam to Postbank or SASSA.
- Monitor your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions.
4. How do I verify if a website or message is real?
Check the official Postbank website (www.postbank.co.za) or SASSA website (www.sassa.gov.za). If the message does not come from these official sources, it is likely a scam.
6. What should I do if someone I know falls for this scam?
- Help them contact their bank to protect their funds.
- Advise them to report the scam to Postbank or SASSA.
- Educate them about online scams and how to spot fake messages in the future.
Stay Alert & Spread the Word
Scammers often target vulnerable individuals, especially SASSA beneficiaries and pensioners. Help spread awareness by sharing this information with your friends, family, and community.
Do not trust any online application for the Postbank Black Card. The only way to get it is through official Postbank branches.
Related: Download SASSA Consent Form for Bank Payments – Step-by-Step Guide for Beneficiaries
