A deepfake video of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga endorsing a cryptocurrency has raised fears of large-scale scamming in Kenya. The video, which appeared on his verified X account on September 18, showed Odinga promoting a dubious digital coin, allegedly linked to economic growth.
Hours later, the post was deleted, but not before several Kenyans likely fell for the scam. Investigations now reveal that Raila’s account was hacked and used to mislead millions, exposing the rising danger of crypto fraud on social media.
Millions at Risk After Raila Odinga X Account Is Hacked for Crypto Scam
The hacking of Raila Odinga’s X account has once again highlighted how easily trusted public figures can be exploited by cybercriminals. With more than 2 million followers, Raila’s verified account carries significant influence. When the deepfake video appeared, many Kenyans assumed the endorsement was real.
The video, powered by Artificial Intelligence, depicted Raila promising that the cryptocurrency would revolutionize Kenya’s economy. In it, he declared that Kenya was leading Africa into a digital future. To the untrained eye, the video looked authentic.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that within hours of the upload, up to 20 percent of the coin’s supply had already been purchased. This points to many Kenyans possibly investing their money based on fake information. While the video was later deleted, the damage had already been done.
The incident is part of a disturbing rise in AI-generated scams. Fraudsters are no longer relying on fake websites alone but are now hacking legitimate accounts to give their schemes credibility. With Raila’s long-standing political stature, scammers knew his endorsement—real or fake—would influence thousands.
Rise of Crypto Scams in Kenya
The Raila X account being hacked is an incident that has exposed just how deep crypto scams have taken root in Kenya. X, formerly known as Twitter, has become a prime target for fraudsters who exploit its wide reach.
Barely two months earlier, Information and Communication Technology Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo’s account also posted a message endorsing a similar cryptocurrency. At the time, Kabogo’s post claimed the token aligned with Kenya’s vision of technological advancement. While questions were raised, the post fueled interest in the digital coin.
This pattern shows a coordinated effort by scammers to exploit high-profile accounts. By hijacking voices of authority, they create a false sense of legitimacy around questionable products. Many Kenyans, eager for quick profits, fall victim before the truth is revealed.
The fact that hackers now use AI-powered deepfakes makes the scams even more dangerous. Unlike traditional fake news, these videos look and sound real, tricking unsuspecting viewers. Cybersecurity experts warn that if leaders’ accounts continue to be hacked, Kenyans risk losing millions to fraudulent schemes.
Why Kenyans Should Be Concerned
The hacking of Raila’s account is not just about one scam. It is about the growing threat of misinformation, financial fraud, and manipulation through technology.
Firstly, it shows that even the most secure accounts are vulnerable. Raila’s account is verified, heavily followed, and linked to a political giant. If such an account can be hacked, the risk for ordinary Kenyans is even higher.
Secondly, it underlines how fast scams spread. In less than a day, the video had been shared widely before being deleted. Many victims likely invested, believing they were acting on trustworthy advice.
Lastly, it reflects a gap in regulation. Kenya has yet to put in place strong safeguards against deepfake technology and crypto fraud. Without laws to protect users, scammers will continue to exploit loopholes, targeting citizens who are unaware of the dangers.
Kenyans should treat all online financial promotions with skepticism. Even if they come from respected leaders, one must verify the information from multiple trusted sources before acting. The Raila X account hacked incident is proof that one wrong click could cost hard-earned money.
Wrapping Up
The Raila X account hacked incident is a wake-up call for Kenya. Cybercriminals are using advanced tools like AI to deceive millions. By hijacking Raila Odinga’s account, they tricked people into investing in a dubious cryptocurrency.
The video was later pulled down, but not before damage was done. Unless urgent measures are taken, Kenyans will continue to fall prey to online scams hiding behind the names of trusted figures. Online vigilance is no longer optional—it is necessary for survival in today’s digital age.
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