The SAPS has dismissed a viral LinkedIn and X post claiming that the police have digitally transformed the process of certifying documents as fake news.

SAPS national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, told the Alberton Record that no such system exists within SAPS and members of the public are urged to disregard these false claims.

The misleading post, shared by a LinkedIn user claiming to have created an app called Digital Document Certification, suggested that citizens could certify their documents online using AI and biometric verification.

SAPS has confirmed that official document certification in South Africa still requires an in-person visit to a police station or a Commissioner of Oaths.

Mathe further warned that such online scams are often designed to defraud unsuspecting users by collecting personal details, identity documents or banking information.

With the festive season approaching, SAPS is urging the public to be extra vigilant against online fraud, phishing and fake service advertisements that tend to surge during this period.

Members of the public are reminded to:

• Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unfamiliar apps claiming to offer government or police services

• Verify information through official SAPS communication channels or trusted media outlets

• Use secure payment methods when shopping online and avoid making payments to unknown individuals or businesses

• Report suspected scams immediately to the nearest police station or via the SAPS Crime Stop line on 086 001 0111

SAPS emphasised that no official document certification process in South Africa is currently available online.

The public is urged to remain alert and report any attempts to misuse the SAPS name or branding for fraudulent purposes.

Stay informed. Stay alert. Protect yourself this festive season.