Reaches you by whatsapp · Public web warning · 12 Oct
OurPower’s SASSA fact-check page, updated 12 Oct 2026, warns that fake SASSA messages continue to spread on WhatsApp, Facebook and TikTok in 2026, including false claims about grant increases and fake application/status channels.
Scammers circulate WhatsApp forwards claiming SASSA grant increases such as an SRD increase to R700 or R450, or telling beneficiaries to WhatsApp unofficial cellphone numbers to apply, fix status, or verify details. They solicit ID numbers, banking details, OTPs or PINs. The page states SASSA does not use personal WhatsApp numbers for applications/status checks.
Different pages, same playbook — matched by what they do, not just the brand.
Updated 6 October 2026: viral SASSA-related scams continue to circulate on WhatsApp/Facebook/TikTok, including fake SRD grant increases such as R700 and R450. These are not official SASSA announcements; the tactic is to lure beneficiaries into sharing details or paying fake fees.
A confirmed malicious page built to look like SASSA.
www[.]sassa[.]shop/
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.