Alert: Scammers Pushing Fake R700 SASSA Grants on WhatsApp

A new WhatsApp scam is making rounds on the well-known messaging platform, promoting a deceitful South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant application for R700. This apparent phishing scam is currently spreading across WhatsApp, preying on unsuspecting users.

How Does the Scam Work?

The deceptive message goes like this:

“The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) R700 Grant Application Form 2022/2025 is Out. The online registration exercise, which is the fastest to apply for, is now out for all real citizens only who need a helping hand in their various activities.

All South Africans between 18-65 years can apply.

More than 55,000 citizens got a R350 fund grant in 2020/2021 due to covid.

In 2025, more than 675,000 citizens will receive R700 payments.

The payments have just started for all candidates. Sign up to be part of the beneficiaries.

Check Eligibility and Apply here.

https://tynlink.com/Apply4SASSAOnline”

Of course, the South African government has not made any such R700 grant statement publicly.Despite this, unsuspecting users who become victims of the scam face risks to their personal and financial information.

Risks of Clicking Links

Users are highly advised not to tap on any links in these messages, as this could be used to grab personal information or infect devices with harmful software. The links likely lead to false Sassa websites designed to deceive users into giving sensitive data like usernames, passwords, ID numbers, and more.

This information can then be used for identity theft or to access victims’ bank accounts and commit financial fraud. The malware obtained from clicked links can also allow hackers to spy on users through their device’s camera or microphone.

An Ongoing Problem

Regrettably, this SASSA scam is just the most recent in a long line of swindlers impersonating the agency. In July 2022, SASSA cautioned beneficiaries about scammers telling them to open accounts with particular banks and claiming the SASSA card would stop working.

SASSA asserts it will inform beneficiaries directly through official channels about any payment changes. Scammers frequently exploit lack of public awareness around actual policy changes to make their cons seem more credible.

How to Avoid Being a Victim?

The most reliable way to evade becoming a victim of these WhatsApp scams is to bear in mind that Sassa will never request personal information via SMS or WhatsApp. Additionally:

  • Do not click on any links in unsolicited messages claiming to be from Sassa, even if they seem official. Confirm information directly with Sassa before providing any data.
  • Beware of requests for private data like ID numbers, bank account details, passwords, PINs, etc. Sassa will not ask for these over chat.
  • Look out for spelling/grammar errors and other signs of phishing attempts. Legitimate agencies will not make obvious mistakes.
  • Install antivirus software and keep devices updated to detect and block malware.
  • Report suspicious messages to Sassa, cybercrime authorities, and WhatsApp. Spreading awareness helps protect others.

Protecting Yourself from Fraud

Safer practices when using WhatsApp and other platforms include:

  1. Maintaining privacy settings and being picky about sharing personal information
  2. Activating two-factor authentication whenever possible
  3. Using strong passwords and updating them regularly
  4. Backing up data offline in case of device infection
  5. Checking if sites are HTTPS secure before entering any sensitive data

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam?

If you receive a doubtful message claiming to be from Sassa:

  • Do not click on any links or provide personal information
  • Report the scam to Sassa immediately
  • Alert your WhatsApp contacts to be cautious of similar messages
  • Change passwords and activate two-factor authentication if you did click any links
  • Run antivirus scans to check for and remove malware

Reporting scams helps Sassa and cybercrime authorities protect others and build cases against fraudsters. Be watchful and alert those less tech-savvy who may be more susceptible to falling victim.

Official SASSA Contact Information

For precise Sassa information and to report scams:

Sassa emphasizes it will directly inform beneficiaries through official channels if there are any payment changes. Remember to never provide personal details over WhatsApp or SMS. Spread awareness to protect yourself and others from fraudsters misusing Sassa’s name.