FSCA warns of fake 'Lucas Ludka' lawyer in grant-refund WhatsApp scam
South Africa's FSCA warns that someone using the name "Lucas Ludka", falsely claiming to be an FSCA lawyer, is offering fake grant-fund refunds over WhatsApp from 372 5616 2589.
- First reported
- Reports
- 1
Source: conviction.co.za · published
What happened
Conviction.co.za reported on October 14, 2026 that the FSCA warned about people allegedly impersonating the regulator and its Commissioner by contacting the public with offers of possible refunds connected to grant funds.
According to complaints to the FSCA, someone using the name "Lucas Ludka" claimed to be a senior lawyer in the FSCA's Investigations Department and put the Commissioner's name on letters sent to the public. The FSCA confirmed that Lucas Ludka does not work for the regulator and that it is not involved in any refund process related to grants. It said it could not reach those responsible and is investigating.
How the scam works
The letters said the FSCA had identified grant funds misused by third parties in investment schemes and that affected people might qualify for refunds. Messages about the supposed refunds were sent via WhatsApp from the number 372 5616 2589.
Refund offers like this typically target people who have already lost money, and use a regulator's authority to make a request for fees or personal details seem official.
The FSCA lists general warning signs: unrealistic returns, offers made through social media, demands for upfront payments, requests for extra money to release investments, charges for training, pressure to pay quickly, and vague information about the product.
Source
Conviction.co.za, report on three FSCA warnings (October 14, 2026).
Red flags
- A "regulator" contacting you on WhatsApp about a refund.
- Letters using a regulator official's name to promise money back.
- Any fee requested before a refund can be paid.
If you were targeted
- 1Check whether a provider or person is authorised before doing business: call the FSCA toll-free on 0800 110 443.
- 2Do not send money to unverified individuals or organisations, including "fees" to release funds.
- 3Report suspected scams to the FSCA Ethics and Fraud Hotline on 0800 313 626, fsca@behonest.co.za or www.behonest.co.za.