Kampala, February 28, 2025 – The Uganda Police Force (UPF) has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding an alarming rise in mobile phone fraud, particularly targeting WhatsApp users. According to Police Spokesman Kituuma Rusoke, fraudsters use sophisticated social engineering tactics to hijack WhatsApp accounts, manipulate victims into sending money, and exploit their contacts with false financial promises.
In a statement released earlier this week, Rusoke revealed the names and phone numbers of four individuals suspected of orchestrating these scams. The suspects, identified as Dr. Howell Kirui (+254735002953), Dominic Kosek (+254754033882), Ezra (+254787947086), and Kibet Kinandet (+254105218443), are reportedly using Kenyan-registered phone numbers to carry out their fraudulent activities.
How the Scam Works
The fraudsters operate by first blocking a victim’s WhatsApp account and then sending a fake verification code under the pretense of re-registering the account. Victims are then coerced into sending money, allegedly to restore their WhatsApp access. However, the deception does not stop there.
Once the fraudsters take over a victim’s WhatsApp account, they impersonate the owner and send messages to their contacts and groups, falsely claiming the victim has received millions of Ugandan shillings via mobile money. They then manipulate unsuspecting friends, family, and colleagues into sending money in anticipation of receiving a portion of the supposed windfall.
The scam exploits trust and urgency, two psychological tactics that often lead people to act before verifying the legitimacy of the request. Many victims only realize they have been defrauded after their contacts alert them about suspicious messages or after losing access to their WhatsApp accounts.
A Growing Cybercrime Threat
The rise of mobile money and digital communication platforms in Uganda has made users increasingly vulnerable to cybercriminals. Fraudsters have adapted their strategies, using social engineering, identity theft, and psychological manipulation to exploit gaps in digital literacy and security awareness.
According to Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) data, cyber fraud cases linked to mobile transactions and messaging platforms have surged in recent years. Mobile money fraud has become a major concern as criminals use cross-border networks to evade law enforcement.
Police Spokesman Rusoke emphasized the importance of public vigilance and digital security measures in combating these schemes.
“We encourage victims to report these scams to the police and also appeal to the public to avoid falling prey to these fraudulent schemes. People should stick to official communication channels provided by service providers.”
How to Protect Yourself from WhatsApp Scams
Cybersecurity experts recommend several preventive measures to avoid falling victim to WhatsApp hijacking and mobile fraud.
Firstly, never share your WhatsApp verification code with anyone, regardless of how urgent or convincing their request may seem. WhatsApp itself will never ask for these codes via messages or calls.
Secondly, enable two-step verification on your WhatsApp account. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a PIN in addition to the verification code, making it harder for fraudsters to take over your account.
Additionally, users should be cautious of unexpected financial requests from friends or family members, especially if they seem urgent or out of character. Always verify directly through a phone call before sending any money.
Lastly, report any suspicious activity to both law enforcement and mobile service providers. Raising awareness and blocking fraudsters’ numbers can help disrupt these criminal networks before they claim more victims.
Law Enforcement’s Next Steps
The Uganda Police Force has vowed to work with telecom companies and cybersecurity agencies to track down and dismantle these fraud networks. Given that the suspected scammers are using Kenyan phone numbers, cross-border collaboration with Kenyan authorities may be necessary to curb the spread of this fraud.
However, digital crime remains a rapidly evolving challenge for law enforcement, requiring both technological upgrades and stronger regulatory measures to keep pace with cybercriminal tactics.
Conclusion
As Uganda’s digital economy continues to expand, cyber fraud is becoming an increasingly serious threat to mobile users. The recent wave of WhatsApp hijackings and mobile money scams highlights the urgent need for greater public awareness, stronger security measures, and law enforcement collaboration to combat digital crime.
While authorities have named four suspects in the latest scam, the fight against cyber fraud requires constant vigilance from the public. Staying informed, securing personal accounts, and reporting suspicious activity can help prevent financial losses and protect Uganda’s growing digital community.