The South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) says it’s working hard to protect itself and its beneficiaries from fraud.

Around 400 000 beneficiaries have been notified for review, and more than 70 000 profiles have already been suspended for failing review.

The agency says a breach in 2021 compromised the security keys used by Postbank to issue Sassa gold cards, causing widespread identity theft and fraud within the Social Relief of Distress grant system.

Eight of Sassa’s own employees were among 12 people arrested last year for 260-million rand fraud.

The agency reiterated that it is coming for all those who have been stealing grants meant for rightful beneficiaries.