The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has issued an urgent warning to all grant beneficiaries regarding a fraudulent electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) link circulating online. This scam is tricking beneficiaries into submitting their personal information, claiming it is required for grant verification.
SASSA has confirmed that the official eKYC system is currently offline for maintenance. Any link requesting verification is fake and should be reported immediately.
This article provides essential information on how to stay safe, avoid scams, and protect your personal details while the eKYC system is down.
What Is electronic Know Your Customer and Why Is It Being Targeted by Scammers?
eKYC (electronic Know Your Customer) is a digital system used by banks and government agencies to verify a person’s identity online. SASSA uses electronic Know Your Customer to verify the details of beneficiaries without requiring them to visit physical offices.
Since eKYC handles sensitive personal information, cybercriminals create fake websites and fraudulent links to steal details such as:
- ID numbers
- Banking information
- Phone numbers
- Grant details
This information can then be used for identity theft, unauthorized withdrawals, or even to redirect SASSA payments into fraudulent accounts.
Official SASSA Statement on the Fraudulent eKYC Link
SASSA has confirmed the following information in their latest public warning:
- A fraudulent electronic Know Your Customer link is circulating, asking beneficiaries to verify their details.
- The official eKYC system is down for maintenance, and SASSA is working to restore it.
- Beneficiaries should not click on any verification links received via SMS, WhatsApp, or email.
- Official SASSA communications will come from @OfficialSASSA on social media or the official website.
SASSA will notify beneficiaries when the system is working again. Until then, any request to verify details online is a scam.
Learn More: How SASSA is Addressing Fraud In 2025
How to Identify a Fake SASSA eKYC Link
Fraudsters use various methods to trick beneficiaries into providing sensitive information. Here’s how you can identify fake eKYC verification attempts:
1. Fake Websites and Links
- A legitimate SASSA website will always have “.gov.za” in its URL.
- Fraudulent links often include misspellings, numbers, or extra words (e.g., “sassa-verification.com” or “sassa-verify.info”).
2. Suspicious SMS, Emails, or WhatsApp Messages
- Scammers send urgent messages saying your SASSA grant will be stopped unless you verify your details.
- Official SASSA messages never ask for banking details, ID numbers, or passwords via SMS.
3. Unofficial Social Media Accounts
- Only trust SASSA’s verified accounts on Twitter (@OfficialSASSA), Facebook, or the official website.
- Be wary of Facebook pages or WhatsApp groups claiming to represent SASSA.
What to Do If You Clicked on a Fake eKYC Link
If you accidentally clicked on a fraudulent link and entered your details, take the following steps immediately:
1. Contact Your Bank
If you provided banking details, call your bank immediately to:
- Report possible fraud
- Change your online banking password
- Request monitoring of suspicious transactions
2. Notify SASSA
- Call the SASSA Fraud Helpline: 0800 60 10 11
- Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
3. Report the Fraudulent Link
If you suspect a scam, report it to:
- The South African Police Service (SAPS)
- The South African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) at 0860 101 248
Safe Ways to Check Your SASSA Grant Status
While the official eKYC system is down, use only these trusted methods to check your SASSA grant:
Check Online via SASSA’s Official Website
- Enter your ID number and phone number to see your application status.
Call SASSA Directly
- SASSA Toll-Free Number: 0800 60 10 11
- SASSA Email: grantsenquiries@sassa.gov.za
Visit a Local SASSA Office
If unsure, go to the nearest SASSA office and speak to an official in person.
Final Advice: Protect Yourself from SASSA Scams
- Never click on unverified links sent via SMS, WhatsApp, or email.
- SASSA will never ask for your personal details online.
- Only trust information from the official SASSA website or social media accounts.
Related: How to Check Your SASSA Balance in 5 Easy Ways
SASSA values your security and will notify you once the official eKYC system is back online. Until then, stay informed and help spread awareness by sharing this information with others.
Have you received a suspicious message? Report it immediately to SASSA.
