Scammers Posing as Home Affairs Officials!

Members of the public are being urged to remain extremely vigilant following a wave of reports about criminals posing as officials from the Department of Home Affairs. The impostors are allegedly visiting homes across various towns and communities, pretending to conduct ID verifications for an upcoming national census.

According to concerned residents, these individuals arrive well-prepared — often carrying laptops, biometric scanners, and documents printed on official-looking Home Affairs letterheads. They claim to be part of a “verification drive” to ensure that all citizens have valid identification documents. Once inside, however, they reportedly steal personal belongings and sensitive information.

Witnesses describe the group as professional and convincing, often dressed formally and equipped with what appear to be legitimate government credentials. Victims have reported that the impostors ask to take photographs, fingerprints, and ID numbers, claiming it is part of a new government database system.

Authorities have confirmed that no such programme or door-to-door verification initiative currently exists. The Department of Home Affairs does not send officials to private residences for ID or census verification purposes. All official Home Affairs services are conducted only at government offices or authorized service points.

Citizens are urged to take the following precautions:

• Do not allow unknown individuals into your home, even if they present what appears to be official identification.

• Do not share personal information, such as your ID number, fingerprints, or address, with strangers.

• Immediately report suspicious activity to your nearest police station or call the SAPS emergency line at 10111.

• Alert neighbours and local community groups if you are approached by anyone claiming to represent Home Affairs.

Local law enforcement agencies are investigating several reports and are working to track down the individuals responsible. The Department of Home Affairs has reiterated its commitment to public safety, emphasizing that citizens should verify any government-related activity through official channels before engaging.

This incident highlights the growing trend of criminals exploiting public trust in government institutions to gain access to homes and personal data. Authorities have appealed to residents to remain cautious and to help spread awareness across social media and community platforms.

Members of the public are encouraged to share this information widely to prevent further incidents. By staying alert and informed, citizens can help protect themselves and their communities from falling victim to this scam.