⚠️ Fake Tender Alert: Scam Email Using Pieter.Bezuidenhout@dcs.gov.za and PLMT 24-25-07

Introduction

Scam operations targeting South African businesses through fake government tenders continue to evolve, and the latest involves a fraudulent Request for Quotation (RFQ) using the identity Pieter.Bezuidenhout@dcs.gov.za, claiming to be from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS). This fraudulent tender request, disguised under the reference code PLMT 24-25-07, is designed to deceive suppliers into supplying or outsourcing goods through a fake process.

This alert aims to unpack the scam’s mechanics, reveal red flags, explain how these schemes usually unfold, and provide tips to help businesses avoid falling victim.

The Scam Email (Overview)

Here’s a copy of the suspicious message circulating:

From: Pieter.Bezuidenhout@dcs.gov.za
Subject: PLMT 24-25-07

Body:
Good day sir/madam,

We urgently request that you supply or outsource the below item/product as per attached request for quotation below. Please review and respond as soon as possible.

All queries, documentations and quotations should strictly be redirected to Simakuhle Yoliswa.
Email address: Simakuhle.Yoliswa@dcs.gov.za

Kind regards,
DCS Supply Chain Management
012 516 0009

At first glance, this email appears professional and includes plausible names, an urgent call to action, and a direct contact point. However, this is a sophisticated scam designed to trick businesses into engaging with fraudulent suppliers or sending funds based on fake quotations.

What Makes This a Scam?

Let’s explore several critical red flags that clearly indicate this is not a legitimate communication from the Department of Correctional Services:

🚩 1. Email Domain Abuse or Spoofing

The email uses Pieter.Bezuidenhout@dcs.gov.za, which appears legitimate at face value. However, scammers often use email spoofing techniques or similar-looking addresses to trick recipients. Always verify such addresses through official DCS communication channels or check SPF/DKIM records if you're technically inclined.

Note: Scammers have become more advanced by mimicking real email addresses or using lookalike domains (e.g., @dcs-gov.co.za, @govsupplyza.online, etc.) that trick recipients into assuming authenticity.

🚩 2. No Tender Details Provided

The message mentions an “attached RFQ” and a vague reference PLMT 24-25-07, but provides no description of the goods or services required in the email body. Legitimate tenders always contain:

• A tender number

• Full product/service specifications

• Specific closing dates and times

• Evaluation criteria

• Delivery and submission protocols

This email contains none of the above in clear, verifiable terms.

🚩 3. Redirection to a Fake Contact

You're told to “strictly” redirect all documentation and queries to Simakuhle.Yoliswa@dcs.gov.za, another address likely created or spoofed by the scammer. This tactic ensures that you deal only with the fraudster and not the real department.

Legitimate tender processes do not require you to work with only one individual via email, especially not in such a secretive or restrictive manner.

🚩 4. Urgency Without Clarity

Scammers use urgency to pressure recipients into acting before validating details. “We urgently request…” is a psychological trick to trigger fast decisions without due diligence. Real tenders usually give ample time (7–30 days) for submission, depending on the project.

The Scam Flow: How You Get Defrauded

Here’s how these tender scams typically work from start to finish:

1. Initial Bait Email
   You receive a fake RFQ email using seemingly authentic identities, logos, and email signatures.

2. You Respond
   If you engage or request more details, the scammer will provide fake documentation (RFQs, tender specs, delivery info).

3. Fake Supplier Introduction
   They’ll direct you to a “preferred” or “approved” supplier (controlled by them) who will send you a quote with high pricing and urgent terms.

4. Payment Request
   After you commit, you're asked to pay upfront or place an order with the fake supplier. You may even receive an order form or fake DCS “purchase order.”

5. Disappearance
   Once funds are transferred or goods are dispatched, communication ceases. No payment from DCS is ever made, and the supplier disappears.

Common Characteristics of Tender Scams

How to Verify a Tender

When you receive any procurement-related request from a government department, follow these steps to verify:

✅ 1. Check the Domain

Legitimate South African government emails end in .gov.za. Be extra cautious of lookalike domains or spoofed senders.

✅ 2. Use the eTenders Portal

All government tenders are published on the official National Treasury eTender Portal:
👉 https://www.etenders.gov.za

If you can’t find the tender listed there—it’s a scam.

✅ 3. Call the Department Directly

Use contact details found on the official DCS website:
👉 https://www.dcs.gov.za

Speak directly with the Supply Chain Management or Procurement Office. Never use contact numbers provided in suspicious emails.

✅ 4. Cross-Check Reference Numbers

Fake tenders often use fabricated tender numbers (like “PLMT 24-25-07”) that do not appear on any public registry. Always verify these with the issuing department.

What To Do If You Receive Such an Email

If you’ve received this or a similar email:

1. Do not respond or click any links.

2. Report the scam to:

   • DCS: complaints@dcs.gov.za

   • National Anti-Corruption Hotline: 0800 701 701

   • Cybercrime SAPS Division

3. Forward a copy to tenderfraud@treasury.gov.za to help prevent further cases.

4. Warn your network. Many companies fall prey due to lack of awareness.

Conclusion

The email from Pieter.Bezuidenhout@dcs.gov.za referencing PLMT 24-25-07 is part of a growing wave of sophisticated fake tender scams targeting unsuspecting South African suppliers. These scammers exploit your trust in public institutions, and their tactics are becoming increasingly difficult to detect without vigilance.

Always remember:

• Legitimate tenders are publicly available.

• Government entities do not rush vendors without formal documentation.

• Never pay upfront or dispatch goods without confirmed contract awards.

If you’re unsure, it’s better to pause and verify than to risk financial loss.

Stay Safe. Stay Informed.

For more scam alerts, tools, and support to protect your business from procurement fraud, follow updates from:

• National Treasury

• Department of Correctional Services

• South African Police Service (Cybercrime Unit)