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🚨 SCAM WARNING: FAKE RFQ from Helen.Ernstzen@dcs.gov.za – “200 x DSP-790 Solar Street Lights”
⚠️ This email is part of an active tender scam impersonating the Department of Correctional Services (DCS). Even though the email address appears legitimate (Helen.Ernstzen@dcs.gov.za), it is spoofed, and the request is fraudulent.
🔍 Why This Is a Scam
| Unsolicited Request for Quotation (RFQ) | You did not request or expect this tender. |
| Unusual Quantity | 200 solar lights is a large, specific order used to create urgency and high value. |
| Product Model (DSP-790) | A generic or obscure product that will later be “recommended” by their fake supplier. |
| Fake Contact Info and Spoofed Signature | Scammers use real DCS staff names and fake their email addresses. |
| No listing on eTenders Portal | Real DCS tenders are always officially published. |
🧠 How the Tender Scam Works
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You receive an RFQ for a specific item (e.g., DSP-790 solar lights).
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The email appears to be from a real DCS official — but it’s spoofed.
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You are told you can outsource the product and quote from your company.
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A fraudulent supplier is suggested or introduced.
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You pay that supplier — but the product is never delivered.
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The real DCS has no record of the tender. You lose your money.
❗ What You Should Do Now
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Do NOT respond to the email.
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Do NOT send any quotes or personal/company documents.
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Do NOT pay any supplier that comes from this tender.
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Report it immediately (details below).
📢 Report the Scam
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National Treasury Anti-Corruption Hotline
✉️ fraud@treasury.gov.za
☎️ 012 315 5311 -
Cybersecurity Incident Response
✉️ cybersecurity@csirt.gov.za -
Also alert your local SAPS Commercial Crimes Unit
✅ Always Verify First
🔗 Check for real tenders at the National Treasury eTenders Portal.
📞 Contact DCS or any department directly through numbers listed on their official website: www.dcs.gov.za
📌 In Summary
The RFQ from Helen.Ernstzen@dcs.gov.za regarding “200 x DSP-790 Solar Street Lights” is a fake tender scam.
Do not reply, do not quote, do not pay.
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