SASSA Call Centre Agent Jobs In 2025: Everything You Need To Know

The digital age has brought new opportunities but also new threats, particularly in the job market.

A recent fraudulent advertisement claiming to recruit Call Centre Agents for the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has raised alarms.

Despite its professional appearance, the scam has been exposed, serving as a reminder for job seekers to remain vigilant.

Here’s everything you need to know about this scam, how to identify fake job postings, and ways to protect yourself.

The Fraudulent Job Posting

What the Ad Claimed

The scam stated that SASSA was recruiting Call Centre Agents for its Head Office in Pretoria. The details included:

• Position: Permanent Call Centre Agent.
• Salary: R202,233 to R235,611 per annum—unusually high for entry-level government positions.
• Requirements:
  • Grade 10–12 education.
  • Age between 18–45.
  • Clean criminal record.

The generic requirements and enticing salary were designed to appeal to a broad audience, increasing the scam’s reach.

The Suspicious Application Process

The fake ad instructed applicants to:

1. Visit an unverified site, jobdogs.co.za.
2. Communicate via a WhatsApp number (064 775 7279).

Legitimate government jobs in South Africa, including those at SASSA, are always advertised through:

• The official SASSA website: www.sassa.gov.za.
• Public Service Vacancy Circulars: Published by the Department of Public Service and Administration.

The use of informal channels and unfamiliar websites is a red flag for scams.

SASSA’s Response

Immediate Action Taken

1. Official Clarification
   SASSA quickly addressed the scam via their official Twitter account, posting a warning and a video alert to ensure wide visibility.
2. Public Education
   The agency emphasized verifying job postings on their official website and advised the public to avoid informal platforms.
3. Collaboration with Law Enforcement
   SASSA has engaged law enforcement agencies to investigate the scam and identify the perpetrators.

How SASSA Educates the Public

SASSA provides clear guidelines to identify fake job ads, including cross-checking postings with official sources and avoiding dubious platforms like WhatsApp or Facebook for recruitment.

How to Spot Fake Job Advertisements

Key Red Flags

1. Unverified Platforms
   Scammers often use obscure websites or informal communication channels like WhatsApp.
2. Exaggerated Offers
   Unrealistic salaries and benefits should be treated with caution.
3. Urgency and Pressure
   Fake ads often impose tight deadlines, pushing applicants to act without verifying.
4. Upfront Payments
   Legitimate jobs never require payment for application or processing fees.

Staying Safe

• Verify Job Postings: Use official organizational websites or government job boards.
• Be Skeptical: Avoid sharing personal or financial information prematurely.
• Contact the Organization: Directly reach out to confirm job listings if you suspect a scam.

Why Job Scams Work

Scammers prey on job seekers’ vulnerabilities, especially in regions with high unemployment.

By mimicking trusted institutions like SASSA, they craft convincing ads to extract:

• Personal Information: For identity theft.
• Banking Details: To steal money.
• Upfront Payments: For fake processing fees.

Their targets are often entry-level applicants, increasing the pool of potential victims.

How to Report Job Scams

If you encounter a fraudulent job posting:

1. Document Evidence: Save screenshots and communication records.
2. Report to Authorities: File a complaint with the South African Police Service (SAPS).
3. Notify the Organization: Alert the institution (e.g., SASSA) to help them issue public warnings.
4. Raise Awareness: Share your experience to inform others.

Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword

Social media platforms amplify scams but can also be powerful tools against them.

Fraudulent ads spread quickly on platforms like TikTok and Facebook, reaching a wide audience. However, organizations like SASSA leverage these platforms to:

• Issue timely warnings.
• Educate the public about recognizing scams.
• Provide verified information.

Tips for Social Media Users

• Follow official accounts of organizations to get accurate updates.
• Report suspicious posts to the platform and authorities.

Protect Yourself

The SASSA Call Centre Agent scam underscores the importance of vigilance in the job market.

Always verify the legitimacy of job postings, especially those claiming to represent trusted institutions. By staying informed and cautious, you can safeguard your personal and financial security.