UNDERSTANDING SASSA EKYC: MODERNIZING SOCIAL GRANT ACCESS
The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is responsible for distributing social grants under the Department of Social Development. To enhance security and prevent fraud, SASSA has introduced an electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) system that leverages biometric identity verification—particularly facial recognition—for SRD (Social Relief of Distress) grants.
What Is eKYC and Who Needs It?
Launched in phases in 2025, eKYC requires:
Existing beneficiaries flagged for identity confirmation
New SRD R370 applicants (from June 7, 2025)
Applicants with changes in contact or identity details, or those using alternate IDs.
Verification typically occurs via an SMS link prompting users to take a selfie on the official SASSA portal. Once submitted, identity verification can take up to 7 days.
Why It Matters
The main goal of eKYC is to tackle rampant fraud in the grant system. Facial recognition helps ensure benefits are allocated to legitimate recipients and reduces duplicate applications.
Implementation Challenges and System Suspension
Despite its promise, SASSA’s eKYC rollout has faced serious setbacks. In early 2025, the system was temporarily taken offline amid concerns over fraud prevention and system errors. This suspension left thousands of genuine applicants—including over 100,000 in the Eastern Cape—unable to verify their identities or receive grants.
Beneficiaries reportedly waited months for SMS links that never arrived, compounding financial hardship and vulnerability to scams. This situation prompted strong calls from Parliament’s Social Development Portfolio Committee, urging SASSA to restore the eKYC system urgently.
Protecting Yourself from Scams
While the official eKYC system was down, scammers exploited the situation by circulating fake verification links. SASSA officially warned beneficiaries not to click on any links unless securely verified via their .gov.za domain or official channels
Looking Ahead: Bank-Based One-Time KYC
Starting July 2025, SASSA plans to introduce a one-time Bank-ID KYC verification system. Beneficiaries can complete biometric checks either at participating bank branches or via mobile KYC vans. After verification, no further KYC will be required unless personal details change.
This decentralized approach aims to simplify verification, reduce delays, and guard against identity fraud.
In Summary
What:SASSA EKYC uses facial biometric verification to confirm beneficiary identities.
When: Rolled out fully in 2025; SRD verification became mandatory in mid-2025.
Challenges: Technical suspensions caused long delays and distress among rightful applicants.
Scam Risk: Fake eKYC links proliferated during downtime—SASSA advised caution.
Next Steps: A bank-based, one-time KYC process from July 2025 is set to streamline verification.
SASSA’s digital transformation holds promise—but seamless execution and secure systems are essential to truly serve and safeguard beneficiaries.