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⚠️ SCAM ALERT: Fake RFQ — “27-05-2025-RFQ-CORRECTIONAL SERVICES (PERMANENT MARKERS)”
If you’ve received an email from Lethabo.Langa@dcs.gov.za requesting a quote for permanent markers, claiming it is an official RFQ from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), please do not respond. This is a fraudulent tender scam.
🚨 What Makes This a Scam?
| Unusual Email Instructions | You’re told to submit your quote to Cindy.Rambaran@dcs.gov.za and Cindy.Rambaran@outlook.com. Official departments never use personal email domains like Outlook for procurement. |
| Unrealistic Deadline Pressure | “Send by Friday 30th May 2025” with no official tender bulletin reference. This tactic is designed to create urgency and prevent you from verifying. |
| Lack of Official Tender Numbers | No valid Bid Number or official publication on eTenders.gov.za. |
| "Outsource the Item" Clause | You’re told it’s okay to quote for an item you don’t supply — a trick used to involve third parties and hide the scam. |
| Incorrect or Misleading Contact Information | Government departments use only their official @gov.za email accounts for tender correspondence. Use of a personal domain like @outlook.com is a major red flag. |
🧠 Typical Scam Process
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A fake DCS official emails you an “RFQ.”
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You’re asked to quote for a random product (e.g. permanent markers, key tags, blankets).
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You’re advised to send your documents to multiple emails, often including a free email account.
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Once you submit your quote, you may be “awarded” the tender and asked to pay a “supplier” in advance.
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That “supplier” vanishes — and you lose your money.
✅ How to Protect Yourself
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📌 Never submit quotes to non-.gov.za emails.
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🔍 Always verify tenders on the National Treasury eTender Portal.
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📞 Contact the Department of Correctional Services directly at numbers listed on www.dcs.gov.za.
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❌ Avoid quoting for items outside your area of business — especially if you’re encouraged to “outsource.”
📢 Report It Immediately
If you’ve received this scam RFQ:
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🔐 Forward it to fraud@treasury.gov.za and cybersecurity@csirt.gov.za
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☎️ Report the scam to your local SAPS Commercial Crimes Unit
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📩 Inform your colleagues so they don’t fall victim
📌 Final Advice
This type of scam is common and growing. It targets suppliers who want to grow their business with government contracts. Be alert, verify all opportunities, and never send quotations to unfamiliar or personal email accounts.
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