> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ioc.support/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ioc.support/reporting-crime-to-authorities/south-africa-reporting-cyber-crime.md).

# South Africa - Reporting Cyber Crime

To begin with, you'll need to report the crime to the **South African Police Service (SAPS)**. SAPS is the national police service responsible for receiving and investigating reports of crime in South Africa. For significant or complex fraud cases, the matter may also be appropriate for referral to specialist authorities.

As a victim in South Africa, we recommend doing all of the following.

#### Report to the South African Police Service (SAPS)

Every crime should be reported. You can begin by visiting your local police station and formally reporting the fraud. Make sure you provide as much evidence as possible and obtain your **CAS number**, which is your police case reference.

### Report a Crime

South African Police Service

{% embed url="<https://www.saps.gov.za/services/report_crime.php>" %}

SAPS is the primary police service responsible for receiving reports of crime in South Africa.

#### Report Serious Fraud to the Hawks (DPCI)

For significant or complex fraud, you should also consider reporting the matter to the **Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI)**, commonly known as **the Hawks**.

The Hawks have a dedicated **Serious Commercial Crime Investigation** capability for serious financial and commercial crimes.

### Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation

South African Police Service

The Hawks investigate priority crimes in South Africa, including certain serious commercial crime and fraud cases.

{% embed url="<https://www.saps.gov.za/dpci/contactus.php>" %}

#### Report to the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA)

If the fraud involved an investment, trading platform, financial company or someone claiming to provide regulated financial services, you should also consider reporting the organisation or individual to the **Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA)**.

### Report a Scam or Suspicious Financial Activity

Financial Sector Conduct Authority

{% embed url="<https://www.fsca.co.za/>" %}

The FSCA regulates and supervises financial institutions and financial services in South Africa.

#### Contact Your Bank or Cryptocurrency Exchange

If money was sent through a bank, cryptocurrency exchange or other financial service, contact their **fraud or compliance team as soon as possible**.

If cryptocurrency has been traced to an identifiable exchange, provide this information when reporting the crime to SAPS. Where appropriate, law enforcement may be able to request information or take further action through the relevant legal process.

Remember that identifying where funds have gone does **not guarantee that they can be frozen or recovered**, but it can provide an important opportunity for investigators.