- SARS warns against a Telegram scam promising tax refunds and commissions to individuals who pay tax through a merchant.
- The scam gains traction through a TikTok video advertising money-making opportunities, luring users into joining the Telegram group.
- SARS urges the public to stay vigilant, avoid suspicious links, and report any suspected scams to the authorities.
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has issued a warning about a recent scam targeting individuals through a Telegram group, promising tax refunds and commissions in exchange for paying tax through a merchant. The scam appears to be gaining traction via a TikTok video advertising opportunities to make money. SARS urges the public to stay safe and vigilant, avoiding suspicious links and ‘get-rich-quick’ schemes.
According to SARS, scammers pretending to be SARS representatives are engaging unsuspecting individuals through a Telegram group. The scammers lure victims by encouraging them to pay tax through a merchant, promising a subsequent refund and commission or salary. Users are led to the Telegram group by a TikTok video that advertises money-making opportunities.
SARS has urged citizens to be cautious and avoid clicking on any suspicious links or subscribing to schemes promising easy money. The revenue service reiterates that it does not engage with taxpayers through social media platforms such as Telegram, and all official communication is conducted through secure channels.
To educate the public on the latest scams and how to avoid them, SARS maintains a “Latest Scams” webpage where individuals can find updated information on known scams targeting taxpayers. Details about the Telegram scam can also be found on the SARS website.
If you suspect that you have encountered a scam or have been a victim of one, SARS encourages you to report the incident to the relevant authorities. Protect yourself by staying informed about the latest scams, verifying the source of any communication claiming to be from SARS, and never divulging personal or financial information to unknown parties.
