In today’s interconnected world, quickly reporting crimes can ensure justice and prevent further harm. In South Africa, there are specific channels through which crime can be reported effectively. Below is a guide to key organisations you can contact to report crimes or seek assistance.
If urgent, dial 112 (From any mobile network worldwide, even if you don’t have airtime.)
This is a list where you can report crimes or incidents and where you can find help for the victims.
Tips for Victims
- Document Evidence: Take screenshots of the abuse, scam messages, or suspicious activities.
- Change Passwords: Secure your accounts by updating passwords and enabling two-factor authentication.
- Don’t Engage: Avoid interacting with cyberbullies or scammers directly.
- Report and Block: Use platform-specific tools to block offenders and report incidents.
1. Childline South Africa
Description: A free, 24-hour service offering support and reporting channels for child abuse and neglect.
- Contact Number: 116 (Toll-Free Helpline)
- Website: www.childlinesa.org.za
2. South African Police Service (SAPS)
Description: The SAPS is the primary law enforcement agency responsible for investigating crimes, maintaining public order, and ensuring community safety.
- Contact Number: 10111 (National Emergency Number)
- Crime Stop Hotline: 08600 10111 (Report crimes anonymously)
- Website: www.saps.gov.za
3. South African Police Service (SAPS) Cybercrime Unit
Description: SAPS investigates cybercrimes such as hacking, identity theft, and phishing scams.
- Contact Number: 10111 (National Emergency Number)
- Cybercrime Reporting Email: cybercrime@saps.gov.za
- Website: www.saps.gov.za
4. Internet Service Providers Association (ISPA)
Description: ISPA helps users report abusive content, cyberbullying, and online harassment linked to South African ISPs.
- Email: complaints@ispa.org.za
- Website: www.ispa.org.za
5. Fraud and Scam Reporting (Scamwatch South Africa)
Description: Scamwatch educates the public on common scams and provides reporting channels for online fraud and financial scams.
- Email: scamwatch@safps.org.za
- Website: www.safps.org.za
6. Centre for Cybersecurity (CSIR)
Description: The Centre for Cybersecurity supports cyber-attack victims and promotes safer online practices.
- Contact Email: cybersecurity@csir.co.za
- Website: www.csir.co.za
7. National Cybersecurity Hub
Description: A government initiative providing resources to combat cybercrime and guidance on reporting breaches.
- Contact Email: info@cybersecurityhub.gov.za
- Website: www.cybersecurityhub.gov.za
8. Social Media Platforms
Description: Most social media platforms have dedicated channels for reporting cyberbullying, fake accounts, or abusive behaviour.
- Facebook: Use the “Report” option on the post/profile
- Instagram: Tap the three dots on a profile or post and select “Report”
- Twitter: Use the “Report Tweet” option or visit help.twitter.com
9. Fraud Prevention South Africa (South African Fraud Prevention Service)
Description: A service for reporting identity theft and fraud to prevent further financial loss.
- Contact Number: 0860 101 248
- Website: www.safps.org.za
10. Schools and Educational Institutions
Description: Parents should alert the school or institution to address the issue collaboratively if a child is being bullied online.
11. Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC)
Description: This service provides immediate assistance to victims of gender-based violence, including counselling and reporting abuse.
- Contact Number: 0800 428 428
- SMS Service for Hearing Impaired: 120 7867#
- WhatsApp Support: 066 306 2454
- Website: www.gbv.org.za
12. CrimeLine
Description: A national initiative encouraging the public to report crimes anonymously via SMS.
- SMS Crime Tip-offs: 32211
- Website: www.crimeline.co.za
13. Stop Human Trafficking
Description: A hotline to report suspected human trafficking and seek help for victims.
- Contact Number: 0800 222 777
14. Fraud and Corruption Reporting (Corruption Watch)
Description: A non-profit organisation dedicated to exposing and preventing corruption in South Africa.
- Contact Number: 0800 023 456
- Email: info@corruptionwatch.org.za
- Website: www.corruptionwatch.org.za
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