SASSA Scam – South African SASSA grant beneficiaries are once again in the crosshairs of cybercriminals, and this time TymeBank account holders are being specifically targeted. As of 27 July 2025, reports have emerged of a new phishing scam involving fake SASSA messages and fraudulent TymeBank login pages, aiming to hijack grant payments before they reach intended recipients. Beneficiaries across the country have been urged to take immediate precautions and update their login details through verified channels to avoid losing access to their funds. This latest scam wave follows a pattern of increasingly sophisticated fraud attempts that prey on vulnerable citizens, especially during grant disbursement periods. Criminals are sending SMSes and WhatsApp messages disguised as official SASSA or TymeBank communication, warning users that their grant is “on hold” or “will be frozen” unless they update their details immediately. These messages often include links to fake portals that steal personal and banking information. Both SASSA and TymeBank have issued urgent alerts warning the public not to click on unknown links or share OTPs (One-Time Pins) with anyone. According to cybersecurity experts, more than 7,000 TymeBank-linked accounts are at risk this month alone. The goal of this article is to help beneficiaries identify red flags, protect their accounts, and take the right steps if they believe they’ve been targeted.
What Is the SASSA Scam and How Does It Work?
This scam targets users by impersonating SASSA or TymeBank. It typically tricks beneficiaries into clicking fake links and entering login or banking details.
- Messages falsely claim grant payment issues
- Victims are told to “verify” their TymeBank login
- Links redirect users to cloned websites
- OTPs are requested and used to access real accounts
- Funds are transferred out before the user notices
- Fraudsters often operate during payment weeks
- Many cases reported between 20–27 July 2025
Real-Life Examples of SASSA Scam Fraud Messages
Here are some types of messages reported by victims over the past week:
- “URGENT: Your July SASSA payment is on hold. Click to verify bank info.”
- “Action Required: Update your TymeBank login or lose your R350 grant!”
- “SASSA ALERT: Your account is flagged. Verify identity immediately.”
Who Is at Risk? Key Groups Targeted
Certain groups are more likely to fall victim to these scams due to frequent digital transactions or limited access to official information.
- SRD R350 grant recipients (daily mobile checkers)
- Pensioners relying on TymeBank for SASSA deposits
- Beneficiaries using free public Wi-Fi for updates
- People who changed bank accounts recently
- Users who clicked shortened URLs (bit.ly, etc.)
- Individuals who shared their OTPs unknowingly
- Low-income households relying on grant funds
Areas Reporting Highest Fraud Incidents (20–27 July 2025)
| Province | Reported Cases | Bank Targeted | Common Platform | High-Risk Age Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | 2,100 | TymeBank | 30–55 years | |
| KwaZulu-Natal | 1,740 | TymeBank | SMS | 40–60 years |
| Western Cape | 1,180 | TymeBank | 25–50 years | |
| Eastern Cape | 780 | TymeBank | SMS | 45–65 years |
| Limpopo | 650 | TymeBank | 35–60 years | |
| Mpumalanga | 510 | TymeBank | SMS | 30–55 years |
| North West | 450 | TymeBank | 40–60 years |
Steps You Must Take to Protect Your SASSA and TymeBank Account
To avoid being scammed, it’s important to follow strict precautions and only use official platforms.
- Do not click on unknown links in SMS or WhatsApp
- Always type www.tymebank.co.za or use the app directly
- Never share your OTP or banking password
- Activate two-factor authentication (2FA) if available
- Regularly check your bank statement for strange activity
- Report suspicious messages to TymeBank/SASSA immediately
How to Identify a Fake SASSA or TymeBank Message
Scammers are making their messages look increasingly real. Watch out for:
- Messages with poor grammar or capitalized URGENT TEXT
- Links that don’t lead to official .gov.za or .co.za websites
- Requests for OTPs or login info via SMS
- No reference number or sender contact details
- Threats like “account suspension” or “fund lock”
What to Do If You’ve Already Shared Your Details
If you’ve mistakenly clicked a link or shared your details, act fast before your funds are stolen.
- Immediately log into your TymeBank account and change your password
- Call TymeBank’s Fraud Hotline at 0860 999 119
- Alert SASSA at 0800 60 10 11 about the compromised account
- Check for any recent unauthorized withdrawals
- Visit a nearby TymeBank kiosk or branch to block the account
- Inform your local SAPS station to file a report
Emergency Actions to Freeze or Secure Your TymeBank Account
If you suspect immediate fraud, use these emergency steps:
| Action | How to Do It | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Block account | Call 0860 999 119 or use app settings | Within 5 mins |
| Change online banking password | Use app or website login | Immediately |
| Deactivate card temporarily | In app: Card Settings > Lock Card | Instantly |
| Report to SASSA | Call 0800 60 10 11 | Same day |
| Visit TymeBank kiosk | Use ID for verification and help | Next business day |
| File fraud case | Report to SAPS and get case number | Within 48 hours |
What Are SASSA and TymeBank Officials Saying?
SASSA and TymeBank have jointly warned about the surge in phishing cases and shared key updates for user safety.
- Official statement released on 25 July urging people to update passwords
- TymeBank app now shows warning banners about fake messages
- SASSA is working with banks to track stolen funds
- New SMS alerts being tested for secure communication
- Public urged to avoid using shared or public devices for login
- Hotline teams reinforced for quicker scam reporting
Statement Excerpt from TymeBank (Issued 25 July)
“Criminals are actively targeting vulnerable grant recipients with fake TymeBank login pages. Please never share OTPs or banking details with anyone. Use only the official TymeBank app or website for updates. All suspicious activity must be reported immediately.”
Key Dates and Timeline of the Scam Operation
The scam began spreading aggressively from mid-July. Here’s the timeline of major events.
| Date | Event Description | Affected Group |
|---|---|---|
| 14 July 2025 | First fake TymeBank SMS spotted | SRD R350 users |
| 18 July 2025 | SASSA starts receiving phishing complaints | Older grant recipients |
| 20 July 2025 | Cases rise in Gauteng and KZN | Pensioners, mothers |
| 23 July 2025 | Fraudulent withdrawals begin showing in TymeBank | Linked SASSA accounts |
| 25 July 2025 | Official TymeBank alert published | All TymeBank clients |
| 26 July 2025 | 7,000+ accounts marked suspicious | Ongoing investigations |
| 27 July 2025 | Emergency notice circulated on grant payment delays | Nationwide beneficiaries |
Tips for Future Grant Disbursements
The next SRD and grant payments are scheduled for early August. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Set your TymeBank app to auto-update
- Enable SMS and email alerts for any transactions
- Do not respond to messages during payment weeks
- Watch SASSA and TymeBank official social media only
- Store SASSA and TymeBank helplines in your contact list
Never Rely on Shortened URLs
Many scams use links like bit.ly or tinyurl. Always verify:
- If the domain ends in .gov.za or .co.za
- If the sender is an official number or app notification
- Whether the page asks for full login/OTP info (red flag)
Stay alert and never trust messages urging “urgent action” without verifying the source first. TymeBank and SASSA are aware of the situation and working to prevent further loss, but it is your responsibility to ensure you don’t fall into the trap. If in doubt—call and confirm. Your grant is your right—don’t let fraudsters take it from you.
FAQs of SASSA Scam
1. Is TymeBank safe for receiving SASSA grants?
Yes, TymeBank is a legitimate and secure bank. The issue is with phishing scams, not the bank itself.
2. What if I accidentally gave my OTP to someone?
Immediately change your login credentials and call TymeBank to freeze your account.
3. How do I verify if a message is real?
Only trust messages from official SASSA and TymeBank apps or their verified contact numbers.
4. Can I recover stolen grant funds?
In some cases, yes—if reported within 24–48 hours. A police case number is usually required.
5. Why are scammers targeting TymeBank users?
TymeBank is widely used for SASSA grant payments, making its users a high-value target.