With more than 18 million social grants under its purview, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has become a prime target for scammers. These criminals often create fraudulent websites to steal personal information from unsuspecting individuals. Here’s how to ensure you’re using the legitimate SASSA website:
1. Confirm the Website Address: Always check the URL bar to ensure you’re on the correct website. Scammers may create URLs that closely resemble the genuine site but contain subtle errors. The real SASSA website’s address is: https://sassa.gov.za/
2. Avoid Clicking Links: SASSA will never send links or request information via SMS or email. Scammers may send phishing messages with links designed to compromise your personal details or device security. Be cautious and avoid clicking on any suspicious links.
3. Be Wary of Phone Calls: Be cautious of phone calls from individuals claiming to be from SASSA, especially if they request new banking details or ask you to open a different bank account for your grant payments. Scammers can sound convincing but are not genuine government employees. Always verify their identity by calling the official SASSA head office.
4. Verify with SASSA: If you receive an SMS, phone call, or email that raises doubts about its authenticity, contact the national SASSA call center at 080 060 101 1 for verification. You can also report fraud or suspicious activities to this number.
5. Use Official Channels: For requests and complaints, utilize official SASSA communication channels. You can send emails to GrantEnquiries@sassa.gov.za for assistance.
By following these precautions, you can help protect yourself from potential scams and ensure you’re interacting with the genuine SASSA website and representatives. Stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly.