Claim: A message circulating on Whatsapp claimed the government was offering Covid-19 grants
Verdict: FALSE
The viral message with the link to the website http://bit.ly/Support-Fund-Apply claimed that there is a Government Covid-19 support grant.
“First-time applicants receive payments within 24 hours after approval. It takes a few seconds to apply. Don’t miss this hurry now,” read parts of the message.
When you click on the link, the portal asks for information such as personal email address, phone numbers, employment status, marital status, age and asks to invite 15 friends or five groups on WhatsApp so that they can also benefit.
“The government Covid-19 scheme is dedicated to adding value to people’s lives across Africa by facilitating health, education and empowerment initiatives,” reads the message.
Meanwhile, the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) warned its citizens not to fall for the scam which was claiming to offer R3 500 Covid-19 support grant to South Africans.
“The text which is predominantly being circulated on WhatsApp contains a link to an unsecured website that asks for the user’s personal information. According to the information on the website, you are required to choose a method of payment and the funds would be paid into your account as soon as possible,” said Sassa.
