Kenya’s Mobile Money Boom Faces Threat from Sophisticated Scams

Kenya’s thriving mobile sector is facing growing risks from a surge in sophisticated phone scams, with a new World Bank report warning that this trend could undermine the country's digital economy.

Nearly half of all Kenyan mobile users reported receiving at least one scam attempt in the past year. The report, which analysed digital safety trends in ten African countries, ranks Kenya second only to Tanzania in terms of scam activity targeting mobile users. These scams range from false prize claims and fake government messages to complex mobile money reversal tricks and fraudulent financial solicitations.  

While most users are able to spot and avoid these attempts, the report notes that approximately two percent of users have been successfully defrauded. Digital safety experts say Kenya’s high mobile usage and strong reliance on mobile money services make the country especially vulnerable. The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), the body responsible for overseeing the communications sector, confirms it receives frequent complaints from the public about scam incidents.

The challenge, however, lies in the evolving nature of these scams. Criminals are using increasingly advanced tactics, often involving personal data and mass messaging strategies that are difficult to trace and block. In response, mobile service providers are stepping up efforts to protect users. In May, Airtel Kenya launched an artificial intelligence-powered spam detection system. This tool reviews more than 250 behavioural and geographic factors to identify and flag suspicious messages in real time, without accessing the content of the messages themselves.

While such tools represent an important step forward, experts caution that technology alone is not enough to fully protect users. The World Bank recommends a broader, more inclusive approach to digital safety. It urges governments, telecom companies, and other stakeholders to invest in digital literacy initiatives, particularly those targeting vulnerable groups. Women and marginalised communities, the report notes, are especially at risk due to limited access to privacy tools and lower awareness of common scam indicators.

The report also calls for the creation of confidential, accessible reporting systems, allowing victims to report scams and seek support without fear of social stigma.
Kenya's experience reflects a wider regional pattern. Countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, and Zambia have also seen high levels of mobile-related fraud.