A social media frenzy has been talking about some false claims regarding a new once-off R12,500 youth support grant for unemployed South Africans between the ages of 18 and 35. These posts wrongly claim that the grant is available to those who are not already receiving any state pension or grant. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), together with the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), has issued a joint statement rejecting these allegations as “fake news” and urging the public not to trust or share such statements.
What SASSA And NYDA Are Saying
SASSA went on its verified platforms and cautioned the public at large and beneficiaries against these posts as they have not been issued by an official source, and therefore should not be entertained. They said in response to the false claims: “SASSA warns its beneficiaries and the public at large against the below FAKE information which does not come from SASSA.” NYDA also issued a statement that reads: “We are not offering any once-off R12 500 Youth Grant.”
Public Reaction And the Risk Of Scams
Despite denials, misinformation has been able to spread all over the internet in viral videos and posts; some of them carry the false seal of official communications instructing young people to provide personal details to obtain the grant. These misleading communications present serious privacy threats. The agencies highly caution that the public must never share personal information with scammers under any circumstance.
Finding Verified Information
Always go with official sources to receive good information about grant opportunities or youth support programs so that you can steer clear of misinformation. SASSA and NYDA operate official websites and establishing credible social media accounts where legitimate announcements stay published.
Why The Misinformation Matters
Exploitation like this takes advantage of the ongoing economic challenges and high youth unemployment to confuse vulnerable groups. This wastes effort, steals personal data, and causes undue anxiety. Both agencies have thus given an outright denial as a strategy to curb the spread and protect the citizens.
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