Recently, a viral message claiming that the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is introducing a new R700 grant for individuals under 65 has caused a stir on social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook. The claim has sparked hope among many South Africans, but SASSA has officially refuted it, warning citizens about the dangers of falling for such scams.
Here’s everything you need to know about the alleged R700 grant, the ongoing scam, and how to protect yourself.
The R700 Grant Claim: What’s Being Said?
The circulating message claims that:
- All South Africans under the age of 65 are eligible for a monthly payment of R700.
- Applicants can register online through a provided link to claim the grant.
- Over 675,000 people are set to benefit from the initiative in 2024.
To make the scam appear legitimate, fraudsters have used SASSA’s branding and logos. This tactic aims to convince unsuspecting individuals to provide personal information, potentially leading to identity theft or financial loss.
SASSA’s Response: A Hoax Confirmed
SASSA has firmly denied the existence of any R700 grant. The agency clarified that all official announcements are made through verified platforms, such as its website and official social media pages. This particular claim is part of an elaborate scam designed to deceive and exploit vulnerable South Africans.
Collaboration to Fight Fraud
SASSA has partnered with the Department of Social Development (DSD) and other governmental bodies to combat fraudulent activities. Together, they aim to raise awareness and protect citizens from falling victim to scams.
How to Identify the R700 Grant Scam
To safeguard yourself and others, it’s essential to recognize the red flags associated with this hoax. Here’s what to look out for:
1. No Official Announcement
SASSA has not announced or introduced any R700 grant. All legitimate grants are communicated through verified channels like the SASSA website, Facebook page, and official X (formerly Twitter) account.
2. Suspicious Links
The scam encourages people to click on an unverified link for registration. SASSA does not require online registration for its grants, making this a clear warning sign.
3. Poorly Written Messages
Many scam messages feature grammatical errors, inconsistent formatting, and unprofessional language — all indicators of fraudulent activity.
4. Lack of Supporting Documents
Legitimate SASSA grants are always backed by official documentation. Scams, on the other hand, rely on vague claims and lack credible sources.
How to Protect Yourself from the R700 Grant Scam
1. Verify Information
Always double-check information on SASSA’s official communication platforms:
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
- X (Twitter): @OfficialSASSA
- Facebook: SASSA Official Page
2. Avoid Clicking Unknown Links
Fraudsters often use phishing links to steal sensitive information. Never click on unfamiliar or suspicious URLs.
3. Report Suspicious Activity
If you encounter the R700 grant scam or similar fraudulent messages, report them to SASSA via their fraud hotline (0800 60 10 11) or to the South African Police Service (SAPS).
4. Share Awareness
Inform friends, family, and community members about the scam to prevent others from falling victim.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you’ve unknowingly shared personal information or clicked on a phishing link, take these steps immediately:
- Change Your Passwords: Update all passwords linked to your email, banking, and other online accounts.
- Monitor Financial Transactions: Keep an eye on your bank statements for any unauthorized activity.
- Notify Authorities: Report the scam to SASSA, SAPS, or a cybersecurity expert for further assistance.
Legitimate SASSA Grants
While the R700 grant is a hoax, SASSA offers several legitimate grants to support South Africans in need. These include:
- Child Support Grant
- Old Age Pension
- Disability Grant
- Foster Child Grant
- Care Dependency Grant
- Grant-in-Aid
Each grant follows a structured application process and is communicated through official SASSA channels.
The R700 grant for individuals under 65 is not real. It’s a scam designed to exploit vulnerable South Africans by stealing personal information. SASSA continues to work diligently to raise awareness and protect the public from such fraudulent activities.
Always verify any claims related to social grants through official sources. By staying informed and vigilant, you can help prevent the spread of false information and protect yourself from scams.
For official updates and more information, visit SASSA’s website.
