SASSA-related scams have become significantly more sophisticated in 2026. The extension of the SRD grant and the uncertainty around long-term social protection policy has given scammers fresh material to exploit. I have been tracking the types of scams targeting SassaHelp readers and this article documents the ones I see most often.
The core rule has not changed: SASSA never charges a fee for any service. Not for applications, not for appeals, not for banking detail updates, not for "priority processing." Anyone asking for money is running a scam.
Scammers set up WhatsApp numbers with SASSA profile pictures and names. They message people telling them their grant is at risk, or that they need to "verify" their details to continue receiving payments.
The real SASSA WhatsApp number is 082 046 8553 only. It has a green verified tick. Any other number claiming to be SASSA is fake. Do not send your ID number or banking details to any WhatsApp number.
What to do: Block and report the number in WhatsApp. Do not engage.
Scam websites copy the look of the official SASSA SRD portal and appear in Google search results, often above the real site. They collect ID numbers, banking details, and sometimes charge a "processing fee" of R50 to R200.
The only official SRD portal is srd.sassa.gov.za. Check the web address carefully before entering any information. If the address is anything other than that exact URL, close it immediately.
What to do: Bookmark srd.sassa.gov.za directly. Do not follow links from WhatsApp or Facebook to "check your status."
Following the budget announcement extending the SRD grant, a wave of WhatsApp messages claimed that recipients needed to "re-register" or "confirm their details" to keep receiving payments in 2027. These are fake.
You do not need to re-register. The extension is automatic for existing approved recipients. SASSA will contact you through its official channels (SMS to your registered number) if any action is required.
What to do: Ignore these messages and do not share them. Report the number to SAPS if it is requesting money.
People have reported individuals operating near SASSA offices who offer to "help" with applications or appeals for a fee, sometimes claiming to be SASSA staff. They are not.
SASSA staff do not charge fees and do not approach people outside the building. Any assistance available at a SASSA office is free.
What to do: Report the person to the SASSA office manager or call the fraud hotline: 0800 601 011 (free).
I am aware of at least two websites impersonating SassaHelp that have appeared since 2025. They use similar names and layouts and in some cases ask visitors to enter their ID numbers.
The only official SassaHelp website is sassahelp.co.za. I do not have a WhatsApp number, Telegram channel, or Facebook page. If you find a site or account impersonating SassaHelp, please report it to me via the contact form.
What to do: Use only sassahelp.co.za. Bookmark it directly.