Information reviewed 20 September 2026
Common Scam Signs
- A fee to release a grant.
- A request for a bank PIN, card PIN or OTP.
- A fake “new grant” shared only through social media.
- An unknown link asking for full identity and banking credentials.
Protect Your SIM
A SIM swap can intercept OTPs and account messages. Contact your mobile network quickly if your SIM unexpectedly stops working.
Protect Your ID Number
Do not post an ID number in a comment, Facebook group or public support thread. Use it only in a secure process that actually needs it.
Report Suspected Fraud
Use SASSA’s current toll-free contact and law-enforcement channels where appropriate. Keep screenshots, numbers and transaction details as evidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does SASSA charge to check status?
No. Social grant services and status checks should not require paying a private “release” fee.
Will SASSA ask for my card PIN?
Do not disclose your card PIN, bank PIN or OTP to a caller or message sender.
What if my SIM suddenly stops working?
Contact your network immediately and investigate possible SIM-swap activity.