Saturday, 5 September 2026 ⚠️ Real Incident

Scam Alert: Fake WhatsApp Teaching Job Offers in Western Cape

Scammers are sending fake WhatsApp messages to teachers offering jobs in exchange for a fee. The Western Cape Education Department warns that these offers are fraudulent.

What happened

Unemployed and substitute teachers are being targeted by scammers on WhatsApp. Scammers impersonate school principals and request fake fees to secure teaching positions. Sadly, some teachers have paid this fee only to find out that no job exists.

How it worked

First, scammers send messages using the actual name and photo of a real principal or official. Next, they claim you are the preferred candidate for a permanent teaching post. Finally, they demand a fee of around R2 800 and your banking details to send an appointment letter.

How to protect yourself

• Never pay any money for job applications or appointments, as official education departments never ask for fees.
• Only use the official online E-Recruitment System to apply for advertised teaching posts.
• Verify any job offer by directly contacting the school through their official, public phone number.

Source: IOL