M-PESA has changed the way millions of Kenyans send money pay bills and shop.. Because so many people use it it has also become a target for people who want to steal money. These people use calls phishing messages and tricks to get what they want. If you know how these scams work you can protect yourself.
Never tell anyone your M-PESA PIN. People who work for Safaricom, banks and the government will never ask for your PIN on the phone in a text message or on media. If someone asks for it do not give it to them it is a scam.
Be careful when someone calls you and says they are from Safaricom customer care. Some people pretend to be officials who are looking into transactions or who want to upgrade your account. If you are not sure hang up the phone. Call Safaricom yourself.
Always check the details of an M-PESA transaction before you enter your PIN. Make sure the phone number, name and amount are correct. It only takes a seconds to do this and it can save you from making a big mistake.
Do not click on links in text messages or WhatsApp messages that look suspicious. Some people send messages that say your account has been suspended or that you have won a prize. These links can steal your information.
Do not share the verification codes that are sent to your phone. These codes are for you and if you share them someone else can get into your account.
Use a lock on your phone like a fingerprint or a PIN. If your phone is lost or stolen this will help keep your account safe.
Check your M-PESA transactions regularly. If you see something that you do not recognize tell Safaricom away and take steps to secure your account.
Try not to use Wi-Fi to do M-PESA transactions. It is safer to use your data or a trusted internet connection.
Keep your SIM card safe. If your phone is lost or stolen tell your mobile service provider away so they can block your SIM before someone else can use it.
Remember, people who want to steal from you will often try to rush you into doing something. Do not let them. Take your time check everything carefully and never give anyone your money or sensitive information if you are not sure it is safe.
If you are careful and follow these rules you can reduce the risk of someone stealing from you and keep your money safe, with M-PESA. M-PESA is a way to send money and pay bills but you have to be careful when you use it. By being aware of the scams and taking steps to protect yourself you can use M-PESA with confidence.
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