The Srd Grant Fraud | An Alarming Situation For Beneficiries

For many years fraudsters have been trying their best in some cases are successful in targeting Social relief of distress. What these do is they use sophisticated tactics to divert the funds released for people in actual need. Sometimes they exploit online application systems & hijack the communication system & this is badly affecting Sassa recipients. 

Srd Grant Fraud

How Do They Do Srd Grant Fraud?

Fraudsters utilize a complex system involving deceptively registering ID numbers then they open bank accounts without the knowledge of the victim. They are also using SIM cards processed through Rica to facilitate their scams.

One notable case involves Surprise Baloyi from Mahlathi village in Limpopo & another case was found that an applicant applied for SRD R370 and officials informed him that you are already receiving funds under this grant, later on, upon application it was found out that a fraudulent account had been active for almost a year, receiving the R370 grant continuously.

How do Fraudsters Operate?

The scammers begin by logging into the ID Generator app with their victim’s information, they mostly target individuals who recently crossed 18 years of age and are no longer eligible for child support grants.

They use the “generate ID” link to confirm the ID number and then enter it into the department system link. By using the correct ID number they create a portal on the Shoprite app for which they use the number which is registered in the name of the victim.

The Shoprite Money Market system then determines which bank account to open. On the approval of the grant, criminals transfer the funds from the victim’s card to their own accounts via the Money Market portal.

They also use other tricks like buying vouchers & betway accounts, this is how they cash out later on.

South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) Response

Srd Grant Fraud

Maqubela said: “We were alerted by numerous beneficiaries who reported issues when trying to apply for the grant. They were informed by the system that they were already registered and receiving the grant, which was being deposited into accounts they did not recognize,”

The Sassa has taken steps to strengthen the system by implementing facial recognition and other verification measures to curb fraud.

Despite these efforts, the impact of the fraud has been significant. Last year alone, fraudulent recipients received more than R31 million. The administration continues to work on resolving these issues and ensuring that rightful recipients receive their funds.

How To Stay Safe From These Fraudsters?

Srd Grant Fraud

Use below stated measures to avoid fraudulent activities:

  • Never share your ID number or copies of your ID with anyone unless absolutely necessary. Be cautious about whom you trust with your personal information.
  • Ensure your SIM card is registered in your name and avoid sharing your phone number with others.
  • Frequently review your bank statements to spot any unauthorized transactions. Report any suspicious activity to your bank immediately.
  • If you have applied for an SRD grant, regularly do Sassa Status check of your application through the official SASSA channels.
  • Only use the official SASSA website and apps for grant applications and updates. Be wary of third-party websites and apps that ask for personal information.
  • If you receive a call, email, or message claiming to be from SASSA, verify the contact through official channels before providing any information.
  • Use unique passwords for your online accounts and change them regularly.

Conclusion

It does not mean that you can’t secure yourself, definitely with proper measures you can stay protected. The administration is also trying its best to stay secure and further implementing face recognition and other techniques. The community needs to remain informed and vigilant and should report any suspicious activity to prevent further exploitation.

Stay in contact with Sassa for your grant updates & information:

  • For general grant queries like card details, application details, status details, and payment details you may use [email protected] 
  • If your issue is specifically related to SRD R350 Grant then you should use [email protected]    
  • If you face any kind of SRD grant fraud get in touch with Sassa securely by using [email protected]  
  • If you want to contact Sassa related to Sassa service or any non-grant questions you may contact [email protected] 

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