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🚨 SCAM ALERT: Fake Tender Using “Janine.Cupido@dcs.gov.za” – Department of Correctional Services Impersonation
Scammers are circulating fraudulent Requests for Quotation (RFQs) posing as officials from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS). A recent scam features the name Cupido Janine, with the email Janine.Cupido@dcs.gov.za, and references Barberton Correctional Centre.
📧 Example of the Scam Email
From: Janine.Cupido@dcs.gov.za
Subject: Request for QuoteKind Regards
Procurement Clerk
Supply Chain Management
Cupido Janine
Department of Correctional Services
Barberton Correctional Centre
1 Kruger Street, Barberton
Private Bag X611, Mpumalanga 1300
Tel: 013 516 0161
Email: Janine.Cupido@dcs.gov.za
🚩 Why This Is a Likely Scam
| Email may be spoofed | Even though the domain appears official (@dcs.gov.za), scammers often spoof real addresses or hijack inactive/unused accounts. |
| No tender reference number | Genuine DCS tenders always include RFQ or RFB numbers traceable on official platforms. |
| Missing or vague product description | Scams often lack proper specs to lure unsuspecting suppliers into making contact. |
| “Urgent” response pressure | Scammers want to rush you before you verify. |
| Follow-up sent from a different email address | The scam may begin with an official-looking email, then move communication to a fake Gmail or Outlook address. |
🎯 The Scam Process
You receive a Request for Quotation (RFQ) with urgent tone.
You're instructed to outsource the item if necessary.
You’re introduced to a “recommended supplier” who is part of the scam.
You pay that supplier thinking you have a legitimate order.
The scammer disappears, and you are left with a financial loss.
✅ How to Verify Official DCS Tenders
To protect yourself and your business:
✅ Check for official publication of the tender at:
🔗 https://www.etenders.gov.za
🔗 https://www.dcs.gov.za✅ Call DCS Barberton directly using their official phone number on the government website — not the one in the email.
✅ Never procure stock or make payments before full verification.
📢 Report the Scam
If you suspect this or a similar tender is fraudulent:
📧 Report to DCS Anti-Corruption: anticorruption@dcs.gov.za
📧 Report to National Treasury: fraud@treasury.gov.za
🕵️ Also report to your nearest SAPS Commercial Crime Unit
⚠️ REMEMBER: Government will never instruct you to outsource, and real tenders always have reference numbers and official publication.
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