Mobile money features in half of reported fraud cases as Kenya steps up cybercrime fight

Jukwaa

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An analysis by the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee (NC4) found that mobile money featured in 51 of 102 reported computer fraud cases reviewed during the six-month period.

The findings were presented during the NC4’s 36th meeting, chaired by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo, as the government called for greater public vigilance and stronger action against mobile-enabled fraud.

“Mobile money fraud was the largest single fraud scheme,” the Ministry of Interior and National Administration (MINA) said, accounting for 19 cases, or 18.6 per cent of the total.

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Investment and forex schemes followed with 16 cases, representing 15.7 per cent, while cryptocurrency schemes accounted for 12 cases, or 11.8 per cent.

Separately, 23 cases, equivalent to 22.5 per cent, contained explicit telecommunications or SIM-related indicators, further highlighting the role of mobile networks in reported digital fraud.

Reporting increased sharply from May, with 70 cases, or 68.6 per cent of the six-month total, recorded between May and July. July recorded the highest monthly volume, with 27 cases.

MINA said the latest figures had informed a series of response priorities, including “closer monitoring of high-risk mobile money transactions” and faster evidence preservation and escalation channels with telecommunications providers.

Authorities also want stronger intelligence on investment, forex and cryptocurrency schemes, quicker action against fake websites and impersonation accounts, and more consistent classification of fraud data.

The government warned that those behind the schemes would face prosecution.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya

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