SASSA CEO Says Use of Biometric ID Will Enhance Security

SASSA to Launch Biometric System to Increase Grant Security

The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is on the verge of launching a revolutionary biometric identification system. It aims at strengthening the security and integrity of South Africa’s social grant system. SASSA aims to significantly reduce fraud through this initiative and ensure efficient, accurate distribution of social grants to the rightful beneficiaries.

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Biometric Identification for Enhanced Security

According to the CEO of SASSA, the agency will implement biometric infrastructure. This will include fingerprint and facial recognition technology. SASSA specifically designed this new system to combat fraud and prevent identity misrepresentation within the grant system.

The biometric verification process will be mandatory for all new applicants. This applies if they use identification documents other than the standard South African 13 digit ID number. Additionally, it will apply to existing beneficiaries who require updates or changes to their information. These beneficiaries must undergo biometric enrollment to ensure their identity is correctly verified.

Key Benefits of the Biometric System

SASSA outlines several key benefits of implementing biometric identification for social grants:

1. Preventing Fraud: The use of biometric data will decrease social grant fraud by accurately verifying the identity of beneficiaries.
2. Enhancing Accuracy: The new system will ensure that grants are distributed correctly, ensuring only eligible individuals receive assistance.
3. Improving Efficiency: By streamlining the beneficiary verification process, SASSA aims to reduce administrative errors. This will improve the efficiency of grant distribution.
4. Safeguarding Dignity: The biometric system will help protect the dignity of vulnerable individuals relying on social grants. It will prevent fraudulent claims and ensure that aid reaches those who need it most.

This new biometric system aligns with Regulation 13(1) of the Social Assistance Act. It outlines the framework for improving the security and accountability of South Africa’s social assistance programs. It reflects SASSA’s commitment to ensuring transparency and continuous service improvement.

Supporting Measures and Implementation Timeline

SASSA’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) team, in collaboration with the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), has already started training a group of “super users” to assist with the national rollout. This “train the trainer” initiative is expected to be completed by late 2025.

To avoid delays and ensure a smooth rollout, SASSA is proactively sending SMS notifications to beneficiaries. These provide guidance on enrollment requirements and staff offices with adequate resources to manage the biometric verification process. The goal is to ensure no delays or disruptions to grant payments for compliant beneficiaries.

Call to Action for Beneficiaries

SASSA urges all beneficiaries to ensure their details are up-to-date and to comply with any instructions sent via SMS. Those required to undergo biometric enrollment should visit their nearest SASSA office promptly.

For inquiries, beneficiaries can contact SASSA’s toll-free helpline at 0800 60 10 11 11 or send an email to [email protected].

A Step Toward a Fairer, More Secure Grant System

SASSA’s biometric identification system marks a significant milestone in the effort to increase the security, transparency, and efficiency of South Africa’s social grant system. By leveraging modern technology, SASSA aims to ensure that grants are received by those who truly need them. This also helps in preventing fraudulent claims and preserving the dignity of vulnerable South Africans.