Kenyan households are on high alert after the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) warned of a criminal gang impersonating government officials. The fraudsters are reportedly conducting fake household surveys, claiming to verify IDs ahead of the 2027 elections. KNBS has dismissed these claims as false and malicious, urging the public to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be an enumerator. The bureau is currently conducting a legitimate remittances survey, with all officials carrying proper identification. Authorities are advising citizens to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately. [Photo: Courtesy] KNBS Exposes Criminal Gang Behind Fake Household Surveys The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics has issued a stern warning after reports emerged of a criminal gang posing as government officials. The imposters are allegedly going door-to-door, pretending to conduct a household listing survey while checking IDs under false pretenses.
KNBS Director General Macdonald Obudho confirmed that the bureau is currently running the 2025 Remittances Household Survey (RHS), a legitimate nationwide exercise. The survey aims to collect data on money sent and received by Kenyan households from abroad.
"The claims circulating on social media are false and intended to create panic," Obudho stated. "All KNBS enumerators have valid identification, and we urge the public to verify their credentials before allowing any survey." How the Criminal Gang Operates The fake message spreading online claims that individuals posing as officials from the Department of Home Affairs are visiting homes under the guise of confirming valid IDs for the 2027 elections. The scammers reportedly carry documents with government letterheads to appear legitimate.
"These criminals are not affiliated with KNBS or any government agency," Obudho emphasized. "Their intention is to deceive and possibly rob unsuspecting households."
Authorities suspect the gang is using the fake survey as a cover to case homes for theft or gather personal information for identity fraud. KNBS has advised Kenyans to:
- Demand official identification from anyone claiming to be an enumerator.
- Verify the individual’s details by contacting KNBS or local authorities.
- Report suspicious persons to the police immediately. How to Identify Genuine KNBS Survey Teams To avoid falling victim to the scam, KNBS has outlined key ways to distinguish real officials from fraudsters:
- Official Identification—All legitimate enumerators carry KNBS-issued ID cards with security features, including a photo, name, and unique code.
- Clear Communication—KNBS informs the public in advance about ongoing surveys through official channels, including government announcements and local administrators.
- No Demand for Money—Genuine surveys are free. Anyone asking for payment is a fraudster.
The 2025 Remittances Household Survey is a critical exercise that will help shape Kenya’s economic policies. KNBS has partnered with the Central Bank of Kenya and the Ministry of Interior to ensure its success.
Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with verified officials while remaining cautious of imposters. Any suspicious activity should be reported to the nearest police station or KNBS hotline.
Stay alert. Verify before you trust. Protect your home from this criminal gang.