This archive report was first published on 23 April 2020.
Published on April 23, 2020, the Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a warning to the public about 'smishing' text messages from fraudsters.
According to the CA, these messages are crafted to appear as originating from reputable companies, including the Communications Commission of Kenya, the predecessor of the CA.
Acting Director General Mercy Wanjau stated that the fraudsters are sending SMS texts to trick recipients into sharing their personal information, including ID, usernames, passwords, PIN, and credit card details.
"The messages are designed to appear as originating from the Communications Commission of Kenya, with a telephone number provided to enable recipients secure further assistance," Wanjau said.
However, Wanjau clarified that the CA would have no business seeking personal information from mobile subscribers for purposes of registration, as mobile operators are the only entities authorized to register SIM cards.
CA has urged the public to report similar cases to the National KE-CIRT/CC via incidents @ke-cirt or through hotlines 0703042700 or 0730172700.
