Postbank has issued an urgent warning to South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries amid a growing wave of fraud involving impostors posing as Postbank officials.
The warning comes as criminal syndicates exploit the ongoing card replacement process to deceive and rob vulnerable grant recipients across the country.
According to Postbank, scammers are targeting beneficiaries who use either the gold SASSA card or the new black Postbank card, falsely claiming that their cards are expired or need immediate replacement.
Victims are approached at their homes by individuals dressed to resemble legitimate bank officials—sometimes arriving in vehicles with false branding—and are tricked into surrendering their cards and revealing their PINs.
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These acts have led to unauthorized access to accounts, resulting in the theft of grant funds.
Cards Remain Valid Beyond May 2025
In a strongly worded statement, Postbank emphasized that both the black and gold cards remain valid and fully functional beyond the May 31, 2025, deadline previously circulated on social media and in unofficial channels.
The institution has clarified that no immediate replacement is required unless officially instructed.
“Postbank does not send officials door-to-door for card collection or replacement,” said Postbank CEO Nikki Mbengashe. “Anyone claiming to do so is attempting to defraud beneficiaries. We urge the public to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity immediately.”
Safeguarding Beneficiaries: What to Know
To protect against fraudulent activity, Postbank has issued the following guidelines for all SASSA beneficiaries:
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Do not share your PIN with anyone under any circumstances. No official from Postbank or SASSA will ever request it.
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Do not hand over your SASSA or Postbank card to anyone claiming to be a bank official.
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Be wary of unsolicited home visits by individuals claiming to represent Postbank.
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Report suspicious behaviour to the police and notify Postbank immediately on 0800 53 54 55.
Where to Replace Cards Safely
Beneficiaries needing to replace their SASSA cards are advised to do so only at authorized retailers including Pick n Pay, Boxer, Shoprite, Usave, and Checkers stores.
A valid South African ID or temporary ID certificate is required for verification during the process.
Also Read: Over 200,000 SASSA Beneficiaries Face June 2025 Grant Delays Due to Income Disclosure Issues
To find the nearest official card replacement site, dial 120218*3# from any mobile phone.
Community Vigilance Encouraged
Postbank is calling on community members, caregivers, and local leaders to help spread awareness, particularly among the elderly and those living in rural areas who are often targeted.
“The safety of grant beneficiaries is our highest priority,” Mbengashe added. “Working together, we can ensure that these essential funds reach the people they’re meant for—safely and securely.”
For more information, visit www.postbank.co.za or contact SASSA at 0800 60 10 11.
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