SARS issued a serious scam alert on 28 July 2026 regarding fraudulent messages circulating via SMS and email that claim recipients are owed a tax refund. These communications, often disguised as official SARS notifications, prompt users to click on malicious links or provide personal information, facilitating identity theft and financial loss. The scam exploits the public’s expectation of refunds, especially during tax season, and uses convincing language to appear legitimate. SARS emphasized that it never initiates contact through unsolicited messages requesting personal or banking details, and it strongly advises the public to disregard such alerts and report them to the appropriate authorities. The agency is actively monitoring the situation, issuing public advisories, and working with telecommunications providers to block the malicious traffic. Citizens are encouraged to verify any communication through official SARS channels, such as the official website or verified contact numbers, and to refrain from engaging with suspicious links or attachments. Staying vigilant and reporting scams promptly helps protect the wider community from these fraudulent schemes.
https://www.sars.gov.za/latest-news/scam-alert-tax-return-notification/