COVID-19 pandemic is here and so is the rampant misinformation. The latest one doing rounds on Facebook-owned messaging platform WhatsApp concerns Safaricom. The text which is being forwarded on the app and other social media platforms says that Kenya’s largest network is offering cash relief to help people as a result of this health crisis while they stay at home.

“Safaricom PLC will be giving out KES 2500 to all of its users during this Corona Pandemic to help people while staying at home.”

They are various steps to be completed for one to reclaim the money once you click the link.

The unlucky people who fell for the scam soon realize that they have unknowingly subscribed to 40789_Apps_Carpetie.

[*Covid Cash Relief from Safaricom*
Safaricom PLC will be giving out *KES 2500* to all its users during this *Corona Pandemic* to help people while staying at home. Claim your share now 👇🏽https://t.co/CRAfIEkRAo]@SafaricomPLC you are trying to cone people at this time?? Verify!

— Sil,… Tish (@SilTishM) April 13, 2020

Users even reached to Safaricom to question if its a valid promo. The Telco replied by saying that its a scam.

This is not from us, it is a scam. ^WS

— Safaricom PLC (@SafaricomPLC) April 13, 2020

People can get gullible during this pandemic and it is imperative you stay well informed before you fall for scams like this.

Safaricom should also come up with ways to counter this problem by informing its subscribers and also booting out services like these that try to take advantage of this crisis to increase their subscription numbers.

Among the valid efforts Safaricom is doing to help reduce the effects of COVID-19 include:

• The telco setting up a toll-free line: calling 719 or using ussd code *719# to get Kenyans to understand how to prevent and manage suspected cases.
• Waiving MPESA fees and doubling MPESA transaction limits.
• Letting City Star Shuttle passengers pay fare via M-PESA
• Partnering up with Eneza Education for learning through either USSD or SMS, an online web app, an offline desktop app or an Android app. The telco has also made sites like Viusasa Elimu and Longhorn’s e-learning platform accessible for free on the web while using Safaricom data without a subscription.
• Doubling up bandwidth offered on Safaricom Home Fibre to help its subscribers work effectively from home.

The Policing of a Messy Promotional and Marketing SMS Space is Overdue