Nyahlane.Mashilo@dcs.gov.za

⚠️ SCAM ALERT: Fake RFQ Using “Nyahlane.Mashilo@dcs.gov.za” — DCS 11-04/2025

South African businesses are once again being targeted in an elaborate procurement scam, this time under the guise of a quotation request (RFQ) from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS). The RFQ in question uses the reference number DCS 11-04/2025 and is sent from or appears to come from the email address Nyahlane.Mashilo@dcs.gov.za.

🔍 Summary of the Fake RFQ

• Email used: Nyahlane.Mashilo@dcs.gov.za

• Contact listed: Nyahlane Mashilo, Supply Chain Management, Drakenstein Management Area

• Phone: 021 516 0539 (this number has been linked to previous scams)

• Tender Number: DCS 11-04/2025

• Urgency: Typical of procurement scams, it demands fast turnaround for quote submission.

🚨 Red Flags That Show This is a Scam

1. No Listing on Official Platforms
   The tender number DCS 11-04/2025 is not listed on:

   • https://www.etenders.gov.za

   • https://www.dcs.gov.za

2. Impersonation of DCS Officials
   The name Nyahlane Mashilo does not appear in official directories or previous legitimate tenders. Even if the email appears authentic, email spoofing is very common.

3. Typical Scam Tactic: Urgent Quote Requests
   These emails often demand quotes for common items like:

   • Mattresses

   • Toner cartridges

   • Safety equipment

   • Biometric scanners

4. They Will Send a Fake Purchase Order Next
   Once you submit your quote and company documents, scammers may send you a fake PO, instructing you to procure from their “preferred supplier”. This “supplier” is part of the scam ring, and if you pay them, your money is lost.

5. Request for Sensitive Documents

1. Scammers often request:

   • Company registration documents

   • Tax clearance certificate

   • CSD report

   • Bank confirmation letter

   • Director’s ID
     These can be used to commit identity theft or defraud others in your name.

✅ What You Should Do

1. Verify the Tender

• Visit https://etenders.gov.za and search for “DCS 11-04/2025”.

• Call the Department of Correctional Services directly on their national line: 012 307 2000 (not the number in the email).

2. Do NOT Respond or Send Any Documents

• Do not submit quotations or company documents unless you’ve verified the RFQ’s legitimacy through official channels.

3. Report the Scam

• To DCS Fraud Hotline: 0800 701 701

• To the National Treasury Anti-Corruption Hotline: 0800 701 701

• To SAPS Commercial Crimes Unit

4. Protect Your Business Identity

• Log into your CSD profile to check for unauthorized activity.

• Change passwords if you suspect exposure.

• Inform your staff to be cautious of similar tender emails.

🛡️ How to Identify Future Procurement Scams

Final Word