SIM Swap Scammers Using IEBC Register to Defraud Kenyans

SIM card swap scammers are now using Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) voters' register to defraud unsuspecting Kenyans.

Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) George Kinoti says the fraudsters access the voters' register online and use the details while illegally swapping or registering new SIM cards.

Speaking when he attended a mobile money fraud risk engagement forum organized by Safaricom and the banking industry, the DCI boss admitted to facing challenges in fight against cyber crime.

Kinoti said criminals come up with sophisticated avenues to con innocent Kenyans making the war against cyber crime more challenging. He urged those with information that can lead to arrest of the fraudsters to share it with police.

“We have noted that criminals are using the IEBC register which is available online to register sim cards which end up being used to carry out criminal activities,” said Kinoti.

“The fight against cyber-crime is facing a number of challenges because criminals have come up with sophisticated avenues to defraud innocent Kenyans,” he further noted.

Kinoti however assured Kenyans that officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations are up to task and will do all they can to stem out the fraudsters.

So far, about 12 Safaricom staff have been arrested and charged in relation to SIM swap scam that has resulted in Kenyans losing millions of shillings.