Introduction
Mobile money services like M-PESA have revolutionized how Kenyans send and receive money. But with convenience comes risk. In 2025, scammers have become more sophisticated—often hiding behind fake apps, Till numbers, and SMS phishing tricks.
This guide outlines the top scams targeting Kenyans today—and how to stay safe.
1. “Watch and Earn to M-PESA” App Scams
Apps promising to pay you for watching videos are often a trap. A popular example is the now-removed “Watch and Earn to M-PESA” app, which asked users to pay KES 100+ to “activate withdrawals.” Once you pay, you’re blocked or ignored—no payout ever comes.
- Red flags: Upfront “activation” or “VIP” fees, fake reviews, poor functionality
- Truth: Legit apps do not charge to withdraw money you’ve earned
✅ Tip: Stick to trusted apps like Google Opinion Rewards for small, legitimate earnings.
2. Fake Rent Till Numbers
Scammers send urgent messages asking you to pay rent to a new M-PESA Till number (e.g. 8914056) pretending to be your landlord or caretaker. These scams often target you at the end of the month.
- Red flags: Sudden changes in rent payment method without prior notice
- Truth: Real agents provide formal receipts or official communication
✅ Tip: Always call your landlord or agent using previously verified numbers before making rent payments.
3. Phishing via SMS and WhatsApp
Scammers impersonate Safaricom or government institutions, sending alarming messages like:
“Your M-PESA line will be blocked unless you verify details.”
- Red flags: Suspicious links, spelling errors, pressure tactics
- Truth: Safaricom will never ask for your PIN or private data via SMS
✅ Tip: Don’t click unknown links or respond to strange messages. Forward them to 333.
4. Fake Loan & Investment Apps
Some apps offer fast loans or “guaranteed profits” from small investments. To proceed, you’re asked to send a small processing fee. After payment? Silence.
- Red flags: No licensing from Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), pressure to “invest now”
- Truth: Real digital lenders are listed by CBK and don’t require upfront fees
✅ Tip: Confirm an app’s legitimacy via the CBK website before using it.
How to Stay Safe
Protect yourself with these simple rules:
- Never pay to receive money or “activate” withdrawals
- Always verify rent or utility payment Till numbers
- Install apps only from trusted developers with positive reviews
- Report suspicious SMS or calls to Safaricom via 333
- Use a strong M-PESA PIN and activate two-step verification if available
Report Scams
If you suspect fraud, contact the following:
- Safaricom Fraud Team: SMS 333 or dial *333#
- Communications Authority of Kenya: communications@ca.go.ke
- eCitizen Online Crime Support: info@odi.ecitizen.go.ke
Final Word
Don’t fall for too-good-to-be-true offers. Scammers prey on urgency and ignorance. Pause, verify, and protect your digital wallet.
📣 Share this post to help someone avoid being scammed!
