Scammers claiming to work for the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) are sending hoax messages to members of the public, according to the department.
In a statement, the DHA says it did not post any message on social media asking people to contact the director-general (DG) about pending applications for permits, visas or identity documents (IDs) for cash.
The department says: "We have an official Web site, 408 offices across the country and have also extended our office footprint in SA's four major banks ? Absa, First National Bank, Nedbank and Standard Bank ? as well as visa facilitation centres run by VFS Global.
"We also have a permitting section in the immigration services branch. It is through these channels that all clients are to reach us for various public services, including applications for permits, visas and IDs."
All permanent residence permit applications must be done online, says the department.
Meanwhile, a suspect impersonating DHA minister Malusi Gigaba on social media was arrested in Stanger, KwaZulu-Natal.
The department, like all government entities, talks to people and clients only through official channels, including departmental media statements, public notices and Web site postings that are verifiable, and through the department's offices, it says.
"The minister, the DG or any other senior officials of the department will not ask people to pay them directly for legally rendered services."
In cases of uncertainty, members of the public are advised to visit the DHA's offices for help. They can also call the department's contact centre on 0800 60 11 90.