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Scam Alert: Fraudulent Tender Notices Circulating Under the Name Koena Nong from the Department of Correctional Services

South African businesses, especially small suppliers and contractors, are being targeted by an ongoing scam involving fraudulent tender invitations falsely claiming to originate from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS). One of the latest names being used to give legitimacy to these fake documents is Koena Nong, allegedly from the DCS procurement department.

These scam emails are crafted to look official and often bear forged DCS branding, department letterheads, and even legitimate-sounding contact details. However, these are not genuine tenders, and engaging with them can lead to significant financial loss, identity theft, or business fraud.

How the Scam Works

This type of scam follows a pattern commonly referred to as a “tender scam” or “RFQ (Request for Quotation) scam.” Here’s how it typically unfolds:

1. Initial Contact: You, as a business or supplier, receive an email from someone claiming to represent the Department of Correctional Services. In this case, the name used is Koena Nong. The email address might seem official but often uses slight variations or fake domains (e.g., @dcs-gov.co.za or other deceptive versions).

2. Fake RFQ Document: Attached to the email is a Request for Quotation (RFQ) document, supposedly inviting you to supply goods such as solar lights, computers, ankle bracelets, office furniture, or industrial equipment. The RFQ looks authentic, complete with a reference number, delivery address, and specifications.

3. Out-of-Scope Request: The scammer may even state that your company doesn’t need to be in the scope of supply for the goods — you just need to “source the items from a third-party supplier and quote us.”

4. Urgent Response Pressure: The email will emphasize the urgency of the tender, often citing a 3-day deadline, which is a common tactic used to pressure recipients into rushing their response without verifying authenticity.

5. Fake Supplier Setup: If you attempt to source the product, you might be given details of a “preferred supplier” who is, in fact, part of the scam. You’ll pay them upfront to secure the goods, but the supplier disappears after receiving your money.

6. End Result: No actual tender exists. The scammers vanish with your money, leaving you with no recourse and potentially compromising your business information.

Key Red Flags to Watch Out For

If you’ve received a tender email that mentions Koena Nong or any other unfamiliar name claiming to be from DCS, here are signs it might be a scam:

• Unfamiliar or suspicious email addresses: Genuine DCS emails typically use @dcs.gov.za, not variations or lookalike domains.

• Generic greetings: Messages starting with “Dear Sir/Madam” rather than your name are often suspicious.

• Unrealistic product requests: For example, being asked to quote on high-value goods you don’t normally supply.

• Urgency and short deadlines: Scammers push for quick responses to limit your ability to verify the information.

• Encouragement to outsource: You’re told it's okay to source the items from another supplier — a tactic to push you toward their fake supplier.

1. Do not respond immediately. Take a moment to assess the situation and verify the sender’s credentials.

2. Check the domain name of the email address for inconsistencies or unofficial domains.

3. Contact the actual department directly using contact numbers listed on the official DCS website (https://www.dcs.gov.za/) — never use the contact details provided in the suspicious email.

4. Report the incident to SAPS, your bank (if payment was made), and to the National Anti-Fraud Hotline at 0800 701 701.

5. Alert others in your network to prevent further scams targeting similar suppliers.

Final Thoughts

Scammers are constantly evolving and often exploit legitimate-sounding names like Koena Nong to lend credibility to their deception. Always exercise caution when responding to unsolicited tender invitations and verify every detail before taking action.

The Department of Correctional Services and other government departments do not conduct official procurement via random emails to unverified suppliers. All real tenders are published on the eTender Portal (https://www.etenders.gov.za/) and the department’s official communication channels.

If something feels off — it probably is. Trust your instincts, verify before you act, and help stop scammers in their tracks.