The Department of Social Development (DSD) has issued a warning about a fraudulent message currently circulating on social media.

The message falsely claims that President Cyril Ramaphosa instructed Minister Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe to open registrations for a so-called “National Family Support Allowance” valued at R1 682 for three months.

Department spokesperson Sandy Godlwana confirmed that no such programme exists.

“There is no new cash allowance, and no registration process for any National Family Support Allowance.”

Godlwana further explained that the message is a scam designed to mislead the public and potentially steal personal information through fraudulent activity.

“The department emphasises that all official announcements regarding social protection initiatives are communicated only through trusted government channels. These include the DSD, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the National Development Agency (NDA), and verified government social media platforms.”

The DSD urges the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious messages or online activity that claims to offer government grants or allowances. Individuals are also reminded to avoid sharing personal or banking information with unverified sources.