NATIONAL NEWS - The Department of Employment and Labour warns the public to remain vigilant of a scam that continues unabated on social media, promising a payout of between R33 000 and R35 000.
Department spokesman Teboho Thejane said the scammers have re-created a fake Department of Employment and Labour website using the old coat of arms/logo on which they ask members of the public to check if their names appear on the list of those who are entitled to withdraw these funds.
Thejane said the fake website claims that workers who have worked between 1990 and 2020 have the right to get R35 000 from the department.
“The Department of Employment and Labour has not asked anyone to come forward to receive any of these benefits and will never do so in a manner that is done through this website. All the benefits from the department are received by those that have worked for them or are entitled to receive them, and are processed at its 125 offices that are spread across the country,” said Thejane.
Thejane advised members of the public to visit the Department of Employment and Labour provincial offices, or the nearest labour centre to seek information.
“Members of the public are also cautioned to refrain from sharing information as they are assisting the scammers to reach out to many unsuspecting people and are also advised not to share their personal information on these social media platforms or website as they are not authentic. The department’s suite of services is offered free of charge to the public,” said Thejane.
To report any suspected criminal acts, the public should contact the Saps; the department’s fraud hotline number 08600 22 194 or email fraud@labour.gov.za or visit the nearest department office.
