Postbank has issued an urgent warning to South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries, urging them to remain vigilant as fraudsters posing as bank officials continue to target grant recipients.
According to the bank, both users of the new black Postbank cards and the older SASSA gold cards are being approached by criminals using sophisticated scams to steal their cards and PINs. These imposters are reportedly visiting beneficiaries at their homes, pretending to be officials conducting card maintenance or upgrades.
The scammers often claim that beneficiaries’ cards are defective, need immediate repairs, or must be replaced—or else their grants will be suspended. Postbank, however, has strongly refuted these claims.
“There is absolutely nothing that requires fixing on either the black Postbank card or the SASSA gold card. Both will remain valid for social grant payments beyond 31 May 2025,” the bank said in a statement.
To help combat the scam, Postbank has issued key safety guidelines for beneficiaries:
- Never share your PIN: Legitimate Postbank or SASSA officials will never request your PIN.
- Beware of surprise visits: Postbank or SASSA will never show up at your home unannounced or without a prior appointment.
- Do not hand over your card: Your Postbank or SASSA card, along with your PIN, is the only way to access your funds—never give it to anyone.
- Report suspicious activity immediately: If you’re approached by someone claiming to be an official, contact authorities or your nearest SASSA/Postbank office without delay.
Postbank is urging communities to spread awareness of these scams, especially among elderly and vulnerable beneficiaries, to prevent further incidents.