Public cautioned against R35 000 labour scam


“The scammers have re-created a fake Department of Employment and Labour website using the old coat of arms/logo in which they ask members of the public to check if their names appear on the list of those that are entitled to withdraw these funds.”

The department of employment and labour has warned the public to remain vigilant of a scam that promises to pay out monies of between R33 000 and R35 000.

Departmental spokesperson Teboho Thejane said this scam was continuing unabated on social media sites.

“The scammers have re-created a fake department website using the old coat of arms in which they ask members of the public to check if their names appear on the list of those that are entitled to withdraw these funds.”

He said the fake website claimed that workers who had worked between 1990 and 2020 had the right to get R35 000 from the department of labour.

“The department has not asked anyone to come forward to receive any of these benefits and will never do so in a manner that it is done through this website.”

Thejane said all the benefits from the department were received by those that have worked for them or were entitled to receive the benefits which were processed at its 125 offices that are spread across the country.

“When in doubt, members of the public are advised to visit the department’s provincial offices or the nearest labour centre to seek information.”

He said members of the public were also cautioned to refrain from sharing this information as they were assisting the scammers to reach out to many unsuspecting people.

“Members are also advised to not 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.”

Thejane requested members of the public to report any suspected criminal acts to the police or the department’s fraud hotline number 086-002-2194 or email – fraud@labour.gov.za (link sends e-mail) or to visit the nearest office of the department.


Author :   Sinesipho Schrieber   (Original publication)
Published :   2020-08-15