Kenyan scammers have been actively targeting Ugandans in a new wave of WhatsApp cyber fraud.
These Kenyan fraudsters are blocking users’ WhatsApp accounts and sending fake verification codes, claiming that victims need to re-register their accounts by sending money. Once the initial payment is made, scammers further manipulate victims by promising millions in winnings, urging them to send additional funds.
Even if victims refuse to send more money, the scammers profit significantly from the initial “re-registration” fees collected from numerous individuals. However, the scheme doesn’t end there.
Once hackers gain access to a victim’s WhatsApp account, they exploit the account’s groups and contacts, potentially spreading the scam further or soliciting money from the victim’s friends and family.
The police spokesperson, ACP Kituuma Rusoke, while addressing the media at Police Headquarters Naguru on Monday, revealed the names of several Kenyans who have been identified as key perpetrators in these scams.
“We have received numerous reports regarding hackers and fraudsters targeting mobile telephone users. We wish to notify the public that the following individuals and their contact numbers should be noted,” ACP Rusoke said, identifying the suspects as Howell Kirui (+254735002953), Dominic Kosek (+254754033882), one Ezra (+254787947086), and Kibet Kinandet (+254105218443).
Further, authorities have warned users to remain vigilant and avoid sharing verification codes or sending money to unknown individuals. WhatsApp users are advised to enable two-step verification and report suspicious messages to prevent falling victim to such schemes.
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ACP Rusoke has also urged Ugandans to listen to the advice given by telecommunication companies.
“We call upon people to desist from falling prey to these schemes and listen to the advice of the service providers. So these cases, as police, we wish to bring to your attention that they are there; they are real. Avoid falling prey,”
