Official-looking vacancy post
A post uses a department logo and says data-capturing posts are open. It routes applications through a lookalike link and asks for a verification fee before the closing date.
What to check
- Check the Public Service Vacancy Circular and the relevant department website yourself.
- Compare the domain, email address, closing date, reference number, application instructions, and contact details.
- Be careful with non-government domains, personal emails, payment requests, and messaging-only application routes.
- Remember that a logo, PDF, stamp, or forwarded circular is not enough by itself.
Recommended next steps
- Do not pay a fee for a government vacancy process.
- Use the department website or DPSA circular to check whether the role and instructions appear there.
- If a post asks for payment or sensitive documents through a suspicious link, keep proof and report through appropriate channels.
Official sources
Use these as starting points, then check important details through channels you find yourself.
Share with someone you trust before acting.
Copy-ready replies
Use these short replies when you need to pause the conversation without accusing anyone.
Verification reply
Thanks for the message. Please send the employer name, vacancy reference, official careers link, and a switchboard number I can find independently before I continue.
Upfront-fee reply
I cannot pay application, admin, screening, training, uniform, or placement fees before work starts. Please send the official application process and employer contact details.
ID-document reply
I cannot send ID, proof of address, bank letters, selfies, OTPs, or passwords at this stage. Please send the employer name, vacancy reference, and official application channel first.
Government-job reply
Please send the department name, vacancy circular or reference, closing date, and official .gov.za page. I will check the post through official channels before I continue.
Travel/interview reply
Please send the employer name, exact interview address, contact person, written appointment details, and a switchboard number I can find independently. I will not travel until I have checked the details.
OTP/password reply
I cannot share OTPs, passwords, banking logins, card PINs, or account access for a job application. Please continue through the official application channel.
App/download reply
I cannot install unknown apps, APKs, browser extensions, or downloads from a job message. Please send the official website or app-store listing so I can check it first.
Money-movement reply
I cannot receive, move, convert, or send money or parcels through my personal account for a job. Please send a written contract, employer details, and payroll process.
Ready to check the opportunity?
Mark what matches, then review a report before you take the next step.