The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a vital source of funding for thousands of South African students. Unfortunately, its popularity has also made it a target for scammers posing as fake NSFAS agents. These fraudsters exploit students’ desperation for funding by offering fake services, stealing personal information, and scamming them out of money.
Fake NSFAS Agents: Common Scams and How to Report Them Safely
This guide outlines the most common NSFAS-related scams and provides steps for reporting fraud safely.
Common NSFAS Scams to Watch Out For
1. Upfront Payment Scams
Fake agents often claim they can fast-track or guarantee NSFAS funding in exchange for a fee. They may demand an “admin fee,” “processing fee,” or even “registration fee.” This is a red flag—NSFAS never charges students for applications or funding services.
2. Fake NSFAS Social Media Pages
Scammers frequently create fake Facebook, WhatsApp, or Instagram accounts that use the NSFAS logo and branding to appear legitimate. They then lure students into sharing personal details like ID numbers, bank details, and passwords.
3. Phishing Emails and SMS
Students may receive fake emails or SMSes that look like they’re from NSFAS, asking them to “verify” or “update” their details via a link. Clicking on the link may lead to a fraudulent site that collects their information for identity theft.
4. Fake Job or Internship Offers
Some scammers pretend to offer NSFAS-sponsored internships or jobs, asking students to pay for a background check, training kit, or admin fee. These offers are not associated with NSFAS and are designed to steal money.
5. Bogus Appeals Assistance
During appeal season, fake agents may advertise services to “help” with appeal submissions, claiming they have inside connections or special approval access. NSFAS does not use agents for appeals, and appeals can only be submitted through the official portal.
How to Identify a Fake NSFAS Agent
- Check communication sources: Official NSFAS communication will come from an email ending in
@nsfas.org.za, their websitewww.nsfas.org.za, or verified social media pages with a blue checkmark. - Never pay any fees: NSFAS funding is free and no upfront payment is required for applications or appeals.
- Avoid third-party help: NSFAS does not work with third-party agents or consultants to process funding.
- Look out for poor grammar and urgency: Scammers often use poor language and pressure students to act quickly.
- Contact NSFAS directly: If unsure, call NSFAS at 0800 067 327 or email [email protected] before giving out information.
Also check: What to Do If Your NSFAS Status Says “Funding Eligible” But No Payment Yet
What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted or Scammed
If you believe you’ve interacted with a fake NSFAS agent or suspect a scam, take these steps to protect yourself and report the fraud:
1. Stop All Communication
Do not respond to any further messages from the suspected scammer. Block their number or account on all platforms.
2. Report to NSFAS
Send a detailed report to NSFAS at [email protected]. Include screenshots, names, contact details, and any conversations you had with the fraudster.
3. Report to the South African Police Service (SAPS)
Open a case at your nearest police station. Fraud is a criminal offence and SAPS can investigate and track down scammers.
4. Report on the Cybercrime Platform
You can report cyber fraud incidents online through the Cybercrime Reporting Platform at www.cybersecurityhub.gov.za or contact the Cybercrime Unit via the SAPS Crime Stop line at 08600 10111.
5. Inform Your Institution
Notify your university or TVET college’s financial aid office so they can warn other students and verify the legitimacy of any future claims.
How to Stay Safe
- Apply for NSFAS funding only through the official site: www.nsfas.org.za.
- Use the myNSFAS portal to check your status and submit appeals.
- Educate friends and fellow students about the risks of scams.
- Don’t share your ID number, myNSFAS login details, or banking information with anyone unless you’re sure they are legitimate.
Fake NSFAS agents prey on hopeful students and can cause serious financial and emotional harm. By knowing the common scams and how to report them, students can protect themselves and help prevent others from becoming victims. Always remember—NSFAS services are free, and official communication will never require personal payment or third-party involvement. When in doubt, contact NSFAS directly to verify any claim.
