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🚨 SCAM ALERT: Fake RFQ from “Erick Donson” – Department of Correctional Services
Scammers are once again targeting South African businesses using fraudulent emails that impersonate officials from the Department of Correctional Services (DCS).
📧 Scam Email Details
Sender Name: Donson Erick
Fake Title: Procurement Official at Drakenstein Correctional Centre
Email: Erick.Donson@dcs.gov.za
Subject: Request to Quote
Listed Contact Info: Cnr Jan Van Riebeek Drive & Wemmershoek Road, Paarl, 7646
Phone: 021 516 0159
The email requests urgent submission of a quote for unspecified goods or services, usually attaching a fake RFQ and pressing for immediate response.
⚠️ Why This is a Scam
| Suspicious contact email | Although it appears to be from @dcs.gov.za, scammers often spoof or forge addresses. Always cross-check directly with DCS. |
| Urgency without clear tender reference | Real tenders include formal reference numbers and are publicly posted on www.etenders.gov.za. |
| Generic or vague product request | Real RFQs are highly specific and aligned to pre-approved suppliers. |
| Encouragement to outsource | They will later refer you to their “preferred” supplier — a fake vendor they control. |
| No listing on eTender Portal | If the tender is real, you will find it listed on the National Treasury eTender portal. |
🚫 DO NOT:
Reply to the email
Click on any attachments or links
Engage with the so-called “recommended supplier”
- Make any payments or deposits
✅ DO:
Verify tenders on https://www.etenders.gov.za
Call the official DCS offices directly using numbers listed on their government website
Report the scam to:
📧 fraud@dcs.gov.za
📧 fraud@treasury.gov.za
🕵️ SAPS Commercial Crimes Unit
🛡️ Example of the Scam Text
“Dear Service Provider,
Please find attached an RFQ document for urgent submission. We are currently seeking companies who can assist with pricing for the listed items, even if it is out of your direct scope...”
– Donson Erick, Drakenstein Correctional Centre
🔒 Stay Protected
Scammers use urgency, impersonation, and fake domains or forged government email addresses to manipulate businesses. Always verify and report suspicious RFQs immediately.
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