Who Should Utilize SASSA’s Updated Biometric Identification System?

Who Should Use the New SASSA Biometric Identification System?

SASSA has recently rolled out a biometric identity verification system, and in this article, we’ll explore what it entails and who needs to participate in this process.

To strengthen the security of grant payments for the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has introduced this biometric identification system. According to SASSA, the primary goal of this initiative is to combat social grant fraud.

Who Needs Biometric Identification?

This biometric identification process primarily targets beneficiaries of the SRD grant. Those who will need to submit their biometric information include:

Individuals wishing to update the phone number they initially provided to SASSA.
Those whose records have been flagged as potential victims or perpetrators of identity theft.
Beneficiaries in these categories will need to undergo biometric identification to verify the authenticity of the information in their SRD grant applications.

How the SASSA SRD Grant Biometric Identification Works

While the specific procedures for the biometric identification process are kept confidential for security reasons, SASSA has assured users that clear instructions will be provided when using the SRD grant system.

SASSA emphasizes that biometric verification, especially through facial recognition, is vital for reducing fraud. By verifying unique biometric features, the system ensures that only authorized individuals can access and modify beneficiary information.

This measure helps prevent unauthorized changes, such as someone updating a beneficiary’s bank account details to redirect grant payments.

SASSA has also stated that individuals who fail to complete the biometric verification process may face suspension of their grant payments.