"This is SARS, you owe R38,000": fake SARS calls and debt threats
23 October 2026 · Omnitrace
Problem: your phone rings. A confident "SARS debt collector" quotes your name, ID number and tax number, and says you owe R38,000. Agitate: pay today or the sheriff comes, your bank accounts are frozen and a warrant is issued. They send a "SARS letter" on WhatsApp and a bank account to pay into. Small business owners and pensioners are the main targets, and the money is gone within minutes. Solution: SARS does not demand payment by phone, WhatsApp or into a private account. Hang up, log in to eFiling yourself and check your statement of account.
Common versions
- Debt threats: "Pay now or face arrest or account freezes."
- Fake auditors: a "SARS auditor" asks for a "settlement fee" to close an audit.
- Business email compromise: a fake SARS email asks your bookkeeper to pay VAT or PAYE into a "new" account.
- Fake job and tender offers: "SARS is recruiting" adverts that charge an application or training fee.
How to tell it's fake
- SARS payments go only to SARS's official bank accounts using your unique payment reference number (PRN), which you get from eFiling.
- SARS does not ask for payment into a personal account, by e-wallet, gift card or crypto.
- Real SARS letters appear in your eFiling inbox. If it isn't there, treat it as fake.
- Knowing your ID number proves nothing. Criminals buy leaked data.
What to do
- End the call. Don't confirm any details.
- Check your account on eFiling or call 0800 00 7277 from a number you look up yourself.
- Report fraud to the SARS Fraud and Anti-Corruption Hotline on 0800 00 2870.
- If you paid, call your bank immediately to try to recall the payment, then open a SAPS case.
For businesses: phone SARS or your tax practitioner on a known number before changing any payment details, every time.
Running a business? Omnitrace helps you verify every client's identity before you sign, lend or hire. Request a service or call 065 375 6188.
This article is general information, not legal or financial advice.
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