Kenya Scams: Mobile Money, Online & Investment Fraud Guide
Common scams in Kenya and how to report them to KE-CIRT, the DCI, and your bank or M-Pesa provider.
Emergency number: 999 or 112 (police/emergency) — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Kenya faces significant fraud linked to mobile money (M-Pesa), phishing targeting bank accounts, investment scams, fake job offers, and social engineering attacks. The National KE-CIRT/CC, operated by the Communications Authority of Kenya, detects and responds to cyber threats 24/7 and accepts public incident reports. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) handles criminal cybercrime cases and operates the #FichuakwaDCI tip line at 0800 722 203. Kenya's widespread use of M-Pesa makes mobile money fraud a primary threat — speed is critical in reporting suspected fraudulent transactions. The Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) handles consumer rights complaints.
Common scams
- M-Pesa and mobile money fraud — social engineering to authorise transfers
- Phishing targeting Kenyan bank apps and mobile wallets
- Investment and pyramid scheme fraud
- Fake job offers requiring upfront fees
Tourist-specific scams
- Overcharging unofficial taxis and matatus
- Fake tour operators and safari package scams
- Counterfeit goods and street-side commission scams
Online shopping scams
- Phishing and smishing targeting M-Pesa credentials or banking logins
- Online marketplace non-delivery
- Fake online shops and ticket-booking sites
Job scams
- Fake job offers requiring upfront application, medical, or training fees
- Task scams via messaging apps
Romance scams
- Dating-app and social media romance with escalating financial requests
Investment scams
- Pyramid and multi-level investment schemes
- Fake forex and crypto trading platforms
How to report a scam here
- Contact your bank or M-Pesa agent immediately to flag a fraudulent transfer
- Report cybercrime to KE-CIRT at ke-cirt.go.ke or call +254-703-042700
- Report to the DCI via #FichuakwaDCI on 0800 722 203 or at dci.go.ke
- For emergencies, call 999 or 112
Local reporting & protection links
- Cybercrime reporting
- Consumer protection
- Police
- DCI tip line — Call 0800 722 203 (#FichuakwaDCI) to tip the Directorate of Criminal Investigations
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Bank & payment guidance
Contact your bank or M-Pesa service provider immediately — reporting mobile money fraud quickly gives the best chance of freezing funds before withdrawal. Never share M-Pesa PINs or one-time codes with anyone; legitimate providers will never ask for them.
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot all messages, profiles, websites and payment pages
- Save transaction references, account numbers and crypto wallet addresses
- Keep emails with full headers where possible
- Note dates, times, names and phone numbers used
Frequently asked questions
How do I report M-Pesa fraud in Kenya?
Report M-Pesa fraud immediately to Safaricom's customer care on *234# or 0722 000 100. Also report to KE-CIRT at ke-cirt.go.ke and the DCI on 0800 722 203. Speed is critical — fraudulent transactions may still be reversible if reported quickly.
What is KE-CIRT?
The National KE-CIRT/CC (Computer Incident Response Team / Coordination Centre) is operated by the Communications Authority of Kenya. It provides 24/7 monitoring and response to cyber threats and accepts public incident reports at ke-cirt.go.ke/report-an-incident/.
Are investment pyramid schemes common in Kenya?
Yes. Multi-level and pyramid investment schemes that promise unrealistically high returns are regularly reported in Kenya. These collapse when recruitment slows and early participants lose their money. Verify any investment scheme with the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) before committing funds.
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance