RDP housing scam targets Joburg residents, City issues warning
An RDP housing scam is currently circulating in Johannesburg, with a fake poster falsely offering help with RDP housing applications. The City of Johannesburg's Department of Human Settlements has confirmed that the poster is fake. Scammers created it to trick unsuspecting residents.
The phone numbers on the poster are not from any official government department. The City of Johannesburg says that no City official can skip the government's formal housing allocation process or offer 'special deals.' The government provides RDP homes free of charge only to eligible applicants.
A scam poster tells people to send personal documents via WhatsApp to a number linked to a fake 'Mr. M Moleya.' It wrongly claims that RDP house applications are open for all provinces and offers free help. The City has denied any connection to this message.
The South African government has warned the public about housing scams, with a significant alert issued in October 2024 by the Department of Human Settlements. These scams usually involve people pretending to be officials and saying they can sell or speed up the process for RDP houses, often using WhatsApp or social media.
The government stresses that RDP houses are not for sale. You should not send money or personal documents through unofficial channels. Watch out for scam indicators like requests for money, promises of guaranteed housing, and fake officials using made-up names.
Residents are advised to visit the Department of Human Settlements, located at 222 Smit Street, Braamfontein, for accurate and official information regarding RDP housing. Housing applications are free and must follow official government procedures. You do not need to pay or find a 'connection' to apply or check your status.
Please do not share your personal information or banking details with strangers. If you have questions, contact the department directly or look for official updates on the City of Joburg's platforms.
Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
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