The Department of Social Development (DSD) has dismissed claims circulating online that the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (cSRD) grant is coming to an end. A series of videos and graphics shared on social media suggested that the grant would soon be discontinued, prompting concern among beneficiaries.
The department said the posts are misleading and not supported by any official decision. It noted that the rumours have caused anxiety among communities that depend on the monthly support.
According to the DSD, there has been no announcement or policy change regarding the future of the cSRD grant, and no directive has been issued by government that signals its termination.
FRAUDULENT USE OF GOVERNMENT BRANDING
The DSD also raised alarm about the manipulation of official government branding in the misleading content. Some of the posts reportedly used the Minister’s image and the department’s logo without permission, creating the impression that the information was legitimate.
The department said the unauthorised use of official symbols is unlawful and contributes to the spread of misinformation by presenting false content as credible government communication. It warned that such behaviour undermines public trust and causes unnecessary panic among grant beneficiaries.
PUBLIC URGED TO USE VERIFIED INFORMATION
In an effort to curb the spread of false information, the DSD encouraged the public to rely only on official communication channels. It cautioned against sharing unverified posts and called for responsible use of social media, noting that misinformation creates avoidable distress among those who depend on the SRD programme.
The department reminded South Africans that all confirmed information about social grants is available on its official website and through verified platforms operated by the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and the National Development Agency (NDA). Updates are also shared through official government social media accounts and the DSD WhatsApp Channel.
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