The Communications Authority (CA) through a statement alerted Kenyans about fraudsters using tricks to make owners divulge important information after which they are scammed.
“This type of scam is referred to as Smishing where fraudsters send SMS texts purporting to originate from a reputable company with the express purpose of tricking subscribers into revealing personal information. The criminals use the information so obtained, including ID, usernames, passwords. PIN, and credit card details. to steal money from the recipient”, the statement read in part.
Below is the full statement
SCAM ON SIM CARD REGISTRATION AND OWNERSHIP
It has come to our attention that some unscrupulous persons are sending messages to mobile subscribers and on social media platforms purportedly to caution recipients that they have exceeded the maximum number of SIM cards allowed per subscriber.
The messages are crafted to appear as originating from the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK), the predecessor to the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) A telephone number is also provided purportedly to enable recipients secure further assistance
We wish to urge the public to ignore these messages as they do not emanate from CA but from criminals, who are out to trick recipients into divulging personal information. including ID card numbers and other important details for fraudulent purposes.
This type of scam is referred to as Smishing where fraudsters send SMS texts purporting to originate from a reputable company with the express purpose of tricking subscribers into revealing personal information. The criminals use the information so obtained, including ID, usernames, passwords. PIN, and credit card details. to steal money from the recipient.
It is important for the public to note that mobile operators (or their agents) are the only entities authorized to register SIM cards. As the ICT sector regulatory agency. CA. therefore. would have no business seeking personal information from mobile subscribers for purposes of registration.
In light of the foregoing. we urge the public to exercise caution and refrain from following the instructions in the messages including clicking on links provided on social media platforms
To report similar cases. members of the public are hereby advised to contact the National KE-CIRT/ CC via [email protected] or through the following hotlines – +254 703 042700 and +254 730-172700.
Signed
Mrs Mercy Wanjau
Ag DIRECTOR GENERAL
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