This initiative serves as a safeguard to reduce the risk of social grant fraud. The verification process is primarily aimed at the selected categories of Covid-19 Social Relief of Distress Grant (SRD) clients who wish to modify their existing mobile numbers or banking details initially provided to SASSA.

“Such modifications will be accepted only upon successful completion of biometric verification; clients suspected of identity theft or those who have been victims of such crimes will be required to undergo biometric identification,” said Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA spokesperson. “This initiative is aimed at eliminating fraudulent social grant applications,” said Paseka Letsatsi, SASSA spokesperson.

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He said that to complete the electronic identity verification process, clients will require a smartphone or computer equipped with a high-quality camera, a stable wi-fi or mobile data internet connection and a well-lit environment where they are the only person in the picture. “It’s important to note that Covid-19 SRD applications are processed exclusively online.

Similar to the application process, this is a one-time activity to unblock an account or make a ‘high risk’ change to a client’s profile. “SASSA will provide detailed instructions on the process when the affected client interacts with SASSA for their transaction of interest.

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“Clients who do not complete the biometric identity verification may have their grants suspended. “We assure our clients that the agency is committed to their safety and this process will not disrupt any other client not listed in the categories referenced above,” he added. For further clarity and social grant-related enquiries, contact SASSA’s customer care at 0800 60 10 11.