Fake news targeting young people is being published online on an almost daily basis. The information spreads online and via whatsapp groups leading people to believe its true as they keep hearing about it from different sources.
However it all starts from a network of suspicious websites sharing the same fictitious stories.
The latest fake news story spread by this network is that Sassa will be releasing a 'Youth Support Grant' where young people with businesses can apply for R12,500.
None of the website stories about this supposed youth grant are on legitimate news publications that are part of South Africa's Press Council. Websites that are part of that organisation comply with the Press Code which ensures they verify their sources and publish truthful and balanced news.
One of the websites is npssu dot edu. Until a few weeks ago this website was the official website of an educational institution in India called National Shikshan Sansthan. Stories in the local media have explained how websites can be hijacked and used for nefarious purposes. News24: How fake congestion tax story uncovered disinformation network built on hijacked SA domains
The best way to deal with stories like these is to check the website that the story appears on, and check the official website of the organisation. There is no reference on the official Sassa website at www.sassa.gov.za.
