JOBSEEKERS in Cape Town are urged to be extra cautious after a fake EPWP jobs scam began circulating on WhatsApp.
The City of Cape Town's Urban Waste Management Directorate has warned about a scam message inviting people to apply for EPWP jobs via an external link.
The city has confirmed that the message is fake. Officials report that some desperate jobseekers, hoping to find work through the Expanded Public Works Programme, have already been misled.
The city is now urging residents to learn how to spot fake job offers before it is too late.
According to the city, there are clear warning signs that show a job offer is not real.
These include recruiters contacting people first, offering jobs immediately without interviews, and promising high pay with little detail.
Scam jobs often have vague job descriptions and unclear duties.
Some even ask applicants to pay money to secure a job or to apply. Others promise quick wealth or easy money.
The city warns that genuine EPWP jobs don't operate in this way.
Poor spelling, bad grammar, and missing contact details are red flags. Another warning sign is when a company requests personal or confidential information before hiring.
The city advises residents to never click on unknown links shared via WhatsApp or social media regarding jobs.
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If you are unsure about an EPWP opportunity, you can verify it.
Contact the EPWP HelpDesk on 021 400 9406 or email epwp.help@capetown.gov.za between 7.30am and 3.30pm.
You can also visit or contact your local sub-council office to confirm information.
Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management Alderman Grant Twigg issued a strong warning.
"We appeal to jobseekers to please be extra vigilant. It's very important to note that the city would never ask community members to pay for work opportunities or to pay to apply for a job," said Twigg.
The city also explained the correct way to apply for EPWP work.
Officials said the only way to be considered is by registering on the Jobseeker Database at a local sub-council office.
There are no online links or WhatsApp applications for EPWP jobs.
Applicants must bring a copy of their CV, their ID, or a valid South African work permit.
The city stressed that EPWP beneficiaries are chosen randomly from the database. No one can buy or fast-track a job.
Residents are urged to share the warning and help protect friends and family from falling victims to the scam.
