February 3 marked the start of the nationwide population and housing census.

As opportunistic thieves are known to use certain strategies to their advantage, Statistics South Africa would like to inform all communities of what to expect over the next few weeks.

To ensure that you or your loved ones do not fall victim to criminals posing as Stats SA field workers, please take note of the following:

• All Stats SA field workers have been issued with a Census 2022-branded bib, peak cap, mask and bag.
• Field workers have a census-branded ID card printed with the Stats SA logo, their photo, name, unique number and the district they have been assigned to work in.
• Households can make use of the online Fieldworker Verification System, which can be accessed here. Search by name, surname or verification number. The fieldworker’s photo, full name and surname and the district they have been assigned to work in are displayed.
• Households can also contact the call centre on 0800 110 248, or the provincial census contact person listed here to verify the legitimacy of the person knocking at their door.

The census is expected to take place until February 28.