Government cautions against relying on unverified information

This is a South African Government media statement dated 25 July 2026 in which government cautions the public against trusting or sharing unverified information related to migration. It warns that misinformation, disinformation and malinformation—especially when spread via social media, messaging apps and unofficial websites—can cause confusion, fear and division, and may inflame tensions around migrants, border management, deportations, documentation, access to services and law enforcement operations. Government urges citizens and migrants in South Africa to verify migration-related content before sharing, to use bona fide media houses and official government channels (or trusted fact-checking platforms), and not to rely on rumours, anonymous voice notes, screenshots without context, or unverified posts. The statement is issued by the Department of Communications (GCIS) and lists contact details for the acting and deputy government spokespersons.