Free Cybersecurity Workshops – As South Africa continues to embrace digital transformation, students are becoming increasingly reliant on the internet for everything from studies to grant applications. But with digital access comes digital danger. In recent months, a disturbing rise in cyber fraud cases has been linked to stolen SASSA R370 grant information, particularly targeting the younger, digitally unaware population. To combat this threat, the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), in collaboration with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), has launched a nationwide initiative offering free cybersecurity workshops throughout August 2025. These workshops are tailored for students, youth grant recipients, and those applying for social support online, aiming to equip them with the essential skills needed to secure their digital identity, devices, and bank-linked grant credentials. The urgency for such intervention has never been higher, as cases of phishing, fake grant portals, and social media scams have surged, especially around R370 grant distribution dates. By teaching students how to identify threats, use secure passwords, and verify official platforms, the government hopes to shield millions from digital exploitation. This initiative also aligns with South Africa’s broader goal to empower the youth with technical skills while safeguarding national digital welfare programs. It’s not just about learning to stay safe—it’s about preserving your financial lifeline. Let’s dive deeper into what these workshops offer, who can attend, how to register, and what students can gain from them.
What Are These Free Cybersecurity Workshops?
These workshops are being rolled out across all provinces in schools, colleges, and community centers. They’re designed to offer practical and easy-to-understand cybersecurity skills for students and young SASSA beneficiaries.
September 15, 2025 – Eskom Predicts ZERO Blackouts This Winter… If It Can Keep This One Promise!
Key Features of the August 2025 Cybersecurity Workshops
- Free and open to all high school and university students
- Focused on real-world online threats targeting grant beneficiaries
- Hands-on training on mobile and desktop security
- Awareness about phishing, scam links, and grant fraud
- Instructions on safe SASSA app usage and verifying official websites
- Guidance on setting strong passwords and using OTPs wisely
- Distribution of cybersecurity handbooks and online resource guides
Where and When Will These Workshops Happen?
The initiative is scheduled throughout August 2025 in both urban and rural educational zones. Below is a table highlighting major dates and locations for key sessions:
| Province | District | Venue | Date | Time | Seats Available | Language Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gauteng | Johannesburg | UJ Soweto Campus | 5 Aug 2025 | 10 AM | 200 | English, Zulu |
| KwaZulu-Natal | Durban Central | DUT Cyber Lab | 8 Aug 2025 | 2 PM | 150 | English, Xhosa |
| Western Cape | Cape Town Metro | UWC Auditorium | 12 Aug 2025 | 11 AM | 180 | English, Afrikaans |
| Eastern Cape | Gqeberha | NMU Science Block | 14 Aug 2025 | 10 AM | 120 | English, Xhosa |
| Limpopo | Polokwane | UNIVEN Cyber Hall | 16 Aug 2025 | 9 AM | 100 | English, Venda |
| Free State | Bloemfontein | CUT Tech Hall | 19 Aug 2025 | 2 PM | 90 | English, Sotho |
| North West | Mahikeng | NWU Innovation Center | 22 Aug 2025 | 1 PM | 130 | English, Tswana |
Who Can Attend and How to Register?
Students aged 14–28 currently enrolled in a South African school, college, or university—or who are SASSA grant applicants—are eligible for these workshops.
Steps to Register:
- Visit the official DCDT registration portal: www.dcdt.gov.za/cybersecure
- Select your province and preferred venue/date
- Fill out the form with student ID or SASSA number
- Confirm OTP sent to your registered mobile number
- Download your digital workshop entry pass
Walk-ins are allowed but subject to seat availability. Early registration is highly recommended.
What Will You Learn?
The workshops cover a wide spectrum of real-life cyber threats and defense mechanisms tailored to youth and grant users.
Topics Covered During the Workshop
- Introduction to cybercrime in SA
- Real SASSA grant scams and case studies
- Spotting fake SASSA websites and emails
- Safe mobile banking and grant withdrawal practices
- App permissions and privacy settings
- Identifying spyware and malware in cheap data apps
Benefits of Attending These Workshops
Attending these workshops could mean the difference between losing your grant to cyber theft or using it safely for your needs.
Why Students Should Not Miss This Opportunity
- Get certified with a government-backed cybersecurity awareness certificate
- Become digitally literate and fraud-aware
- Protect your digital profile, banking details, and grant credentials
- Learn how to file a cybercrime report with SAPS Cyber Unit
- Build awareness in your family and peer group
Cybercrime Cases on the Rise – Real Examples
In the last quarter alone, SASSA has recorded over 1,500 fraud attempts involving student-linked grants via phishing apps and social media ads.
Common Scams Students Fall For:
- Fake SASSA grant approval links asking for bank OTP
- WhatsApp forwarded registration forms requiring ID details
- “Win a grant boost” contests requiring login credentials
- Clickbait YouTube tutorials leading to spyware apps
| Scam Type | Platform Used | Target Group | Losses Reported |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phishing Websites | Chrome/WhatsApp | Teen Grant Users | R370–R2,000 each |
| Fake App Downloads | Play Store Clones | Smartphone Users | R500–R5,000 |
| OTP Theft via Call | Mobile Calls | Elderly Students | R370–R1,850 |
| Data Harvest Contests | Instagram Reels | College Youth | Personal Details |
| SASSA Impersonators | Facebook Comments | Low-income Homes | Account Lockouts |
Departmental Contact Details for Assistance
For any help regarding workshop registration or cyber fraud reporting, reach out to the following official departments:
Cybersecurity Helpdesk (DCDT)
- Email: [email protected]
- Helpline: 0800-123-456 (Toll-free)
- Website: www.dcdt.gov.za/cybersecure
SASSA Digital Fraud Unit
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 0800-60-10-11
- WhatsApp Reporting: 082 046 8553
- Website: www.sassa.gov.za
SAPS Cybercrime Division
- Emergency Hotline: 10111
- Digital Crimes Reporting: www.saps.gov.za/cybercrime
How Schools and Colleges Can Partner in This Initiative
Educational institutions are encouraged to host or promote these workshops to maximize reach.
Steps for Schools to Get Involved
- Contact your local DCDT liaison officer
- Allocate a venue and time for student participation
- Share workshop resources on school social media and WhatsApp groups
- Encourage students to register in IT labs or during assembly
- Offer attendance certificate benefits
SASSA Grant Security – Beyond the Workshop
The learning doesn’t stop after August. Participants will receive access to digital toolkits and newsletters for continued security learning.
Key Digital Safety Tips for R370 Grant Users
- Never share your OTP or grant details on social media
- Always verify URLs with “.gov.za” domain
- Avoid public Wi-Fi while logging into banking apps
- Use trusted antivirus tools on your phone
- Enable biometric security if your phone allows it
With over 9 million South Africans relying on social grants, the digital protection of these funds is a national priority. These workshops are not just a learning opportunity—they are a defense mechanism for your future. Whether you’re a student, grant applicant, or an educator, the time to act is now. Don’t wait until your R370 is gone to learn how to protect it.
