Reaches you by whatsapp · Public web warning · 06 Oct
A SASSA-focused fact-check updated on 2026-10-06 warns that fake SASSA messages are circulating on WhatsApp, Facebook and TikTok, including false claims about grant increases, fake WhatsApp application numbers, SMS verification links, fake SASSA websites and fake business grants. It states SASSA does not WhatsApp/SMS links, call for OTPs, charge fees, or use non-government domains for grant applications.
Scammers impersonate SASSA on WhatsApp/social/SMS, claiming beneficiaries must verify details, apply through unofficial numbers/sites, pay a fee, or claim a bigger grant/business grant; the aim is to steal ID, banking details, OTPs or fees.
Different pages, same playbook — matched by what they do, not just the brand.
A confirmed malicious page built to look like SASSA.
www[.]sassa[.]shop/
Fake SASSA grant/SRD messages circulate on WhatsApp, Facebook and TikTok, claiming grant increases or requiring beneficiaries to apply, verify, update details, or pay a fee. The source notes SASSA’s legitimate sites are sassa.gov.za and srd.sassa.gov.za.