Pretoria: The Department of Social Development (DSD) has dismissed false claims circulating on social media suggesting that the COVID-19 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant is set to be terminated. According to South African Government News Agency, the department expressed concern over videos and graphics being shared across social media platforms alleging the imminent end of the SRD grant. The department firmly stated that there is no decision, announcement, or directive from the government regarding the termination of the SRD grant. The department also highlighted that the unauthorized use of the official image of the Minister and the department's logo is unlawful, especially when it is used to spread misinformation. Such actions, they noted, misrepresent government communication and can be misleading. The public has been urged to dismiss the misleading content and rely solely on verified information released through official government communication platforms. The department emphasized the importance of not creating or sharing fake news, as it causes unnecessary panic and distress among social grant beneficiaries. For accurate information regarding social grants, the department advises the public to refer to the Department of Social Development's official website, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), the National Development Agency (NDA) platforms, verified government social media pages, and the department's WhatsApp channel.