This archive report was first published on 25 June 2020.
As Kenyans continue to grapple with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, a new scam has emerged, targeting unsuspecting citizens with promises of free Ksh20,000 relief funds.
According to reports, the scam is being circulated on WhatsApp groups, with messages claiming that the Uhuru Kenyatta Foundation has approved and started giving out free Ksh20,000 relief funds to each citizen.
However, the website linked in the message is a scam, asking users to submit personal information including name, contacts, and identifiers before getting access to any relief materials.
Users are also required to make a payment ranging between Ksh10,000 and Ksh20,000 before getting the relief foods.
IT Expert Brian Muuo has warned that such scams have become common during the Covid-19 period, and people should avoid them at all costs.
"Most of these scams mine for information. Some of these links, automatically install malware on your computer or mobile device," he advised.
As a rule of thumb in combating fake news, it is recommended to only share information that is verified.
