R350 Refund Scams – The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has issued a high-level warning following an alarming rise in R350 refund scams that have targeted vulnerable beneficiaries across the country. According to official reports, more than 300,000 South Africans have already fallen victim to this wave of fraud in June alone, sparking national concern and calls for immediate caution. Fraudsters have been using fake SMS messages, WhatsApp links, and phishing websites promising “R350 grant refunds” or “SASSA bonus payments” to gain access to recipients’ personal banking details. This latest scam is being described as one of the largest coordinated attempts to defraud SASSA grant beneficiaries, especially those receiving the Special COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. SASSA confirms that no refund process exists and warns that all communication regarding grants will only be made via official channels. Many victims reported receiving fake confirmation messages and clicking links that redirect to fraudulent websites mimicking the SASSA portal. Once details are entered, fraudsters can access or reroute payments. The agency urges all South Africans—especially those relying on monthly grants—to remain vigilant, never click on unfamiliar links, and report any suspicious communication immediately. With over 300,000 cases already reported, the financial and emotional damage caused by this scam wave is severe and growing. SASSA, along with the Department of Social Development and cybersecurity units, is now working on tracing the origins of the scam while providing guidance for victims on how to secure their information and potentially recover their accounts. Below is a complete breakdown of the scam’s nature, its impact, how it operates, and what you can do to stay protected.
Surge in R350 Refund Scam Reports in June
Thousands of reports have been flooding in from beneficiaries across all nine provinces. Most of the affected individuals received fake messages promising “R350 backpay” or “bonus payment confirmations.”
- Over 300,000 victims reported nationwide as of June 24
- Scam messages mostly sent via SMS and WhatsApp
- Fraudulent links often mimic official SASSA website layout
- Bank details and ID numbers are being targeted
- Most victims are SRD R350 grant beneficiaries
- Police and SASSA cybercrime units are investigating
- No official refund or bonus process exists at SASSA
How the R350 Refund Scams Typically Works
The refund scam is well-planned and manipulates urgency, trust, and financial desperation. Here’s a common flow used by fraudsters:
Step-by-step Operation of the Scam
SASSA Announces Early July–August Grant Payments and Bonus Payouts for Eligible Beneficiaries!
- A beneficiary receives an SMS or WhatsApp stating a refund or bonus is due.
- The message includes a link to a fake “SASSA Refund Portal.”
- The link opens a site that looks like the official SASSA login page.
- The page requests ID number, bank account, and mobile details.
- After submission, fraudsters gain access to banking credentials.
- Victims often only realize the fraud after payments are rerouted.
Province-Wise Breakdown of R350 Refund Scams Reports
| Province | Reported Victims | Top Communication Mode | Amounts Lost (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | 78,000 | WhatsApp Links | R12.5 Million |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 62,000 | SMS | R9.3 Million |
| Eastern Cape | 41,000 | Fake Web Forms | R6.1 Million |
| Western Cape | 37,000 | WhatsApp Messages | R5.8 Million |
| Limpopo | 24,500 | SMS | R3.6 Million |
| North West | 18,000 | Mixed | R2.9 Million |
| Free State | 14,200 | WhatsApp Links | R2.3 Million |
| Mpumalanga | 13,500 | SMS | R2.1 Million |
| Northern Cape | 9,800 | Phishing Emails | R1.4 Million |
Red Flags to Identify a R350 Refund Scams Message
Many fake messages follow similar patterns. SASSA recommends the public pay close attention to these key warning signs.
Common Indicators in Scam Messages
- Contains urgent language like “Refund Available Today”
- Requests personal details like ID number or banking info
- Includes suspicious links (especially shortened URLs)
- Comes from unofficial phone numbers or email addresses
- Claims to offer SASSA bonuses or R350 backpay
- Has grammar or spelling mistakes
What SASSA Has Officially Confirmed
SASSA has reiterated that no refund policy, bonus scheme, or urgent verification link is being sent to any beneficiaries via SMS or WhatsApp.
Official SASSA Statements
- All grant communication is only made via the official SASSA website or verified call centers
- No R350 refund or backpay process exists
- Beneficiaries should never click on links from unknown sources
- If in doubt, always contact SASSA directly at 0800 60 10 11
- Official grant updates are available at www.sassa.gov.za
What to Do If You’re a Victim
Those who may have shared their personal information on suspicious sites are urged to act quickly to limit damage.
Immediate Actions to Take
- Contact your bank and freeze or change your banking details
- Report the fraud to SAPS and SASSA
- Monitor your account for unauthorized transactions
- Update your login credentials for the official SASSA portal
- Consider registering fraud alert services with your mobile provider
Preventing Future Scams: Public Awareness Is Key
SASSA will be launching a nationwide awareness campaign through local radio, community centers, and TV ads to educate the public on how to avoid falling victim.
- Posters and flyers in public transport hubs and post offices
- Community briefings hosted by social workers
- Tutorials on official YouTube and Facebook pages
- Real-time alerts via SASSA app to warn about trending scams
Reporting a Scam to SASSA or Authorities
If you suspect a scam, take the following steps to report it officially:
- Call the SASSA Fraud Hotline: 0800 701 701
- Report incidents via SAPS Cybercrime Division
- Email screenshots or links to: [email protected]
- Do not delete the scam message – keep it as evidence
- Share the warning with friends, family, and neighbors
Checklist for Verifying Genuine SASSA Communication
| Feature | Real SASSA Message | Scam Message Likely |
|---|---|---|
| Sent from SASSA short code | Yes | No |
| Contains shortened links | No | Yes |
| Demands urgent action | No | Yes |
| Mentions “refund” or “bonus” | No | Yes |
| Uses official logo | Yes | Sometimes (copied) |
| Requests banking info | No | Yes |
| Language and grammar | Professional | Often poor |
While the SASSA R350 grant is a vital lifeline for millions, scammers are exploiting people’s trust and urgency. Always stay alert, verify before clicking, and spread awareness in your community. If something seems too good to be true—especially when it comes to refunds or bonuses from SASSA—it probably is. Stay safe, protect your data, and report any suspicious activity without delay.
FAQs of R350 Refund Scams
Q1: Is SASSA really offering R350 refunds or backpay?
No. SASSA has made it clear there is no such refund or bonus program.
Q2: What should I do if I already submitted my information?
Immediately contact your bank and report to SASSA and SAPS. Change your online login details.
Q3: How can I identify an official SASSA message?
Official messages are sent from SASSA’s verified platforms and do not ask for personal info via links.
Q4: Is it safe to apply for grants online?
Yes, only if you use the official SASSA website (www.sassa.gov.za) or official apps.
Q5: Will SASSA contact me directly via WhatsApp?
No. SASSA does not communicate with beneficiaries via WhatsApp links for verification or refunds.
