Someone I met online says "send me money for transport" so they can come and see me. Is it a scam?
It is one of the most common small scams in Tanzania: the person asks for transport money, receives it by mobile money and never arrives. Some ask again and again with new excuses. If someone really wants to meet you, they can pay their own way to a first meeting.
The amount is often small on purpose, so it feels rude to say no. But once you have sent it, the next request comes: the bus broke down, they need money for food, for a hotel, for the return trip.
Meet in a public place you can both reach, and let each person pay for their own transport.
What to do
- Do not send transport money to someone you have never met.
- Suggest a public place that is easy for both of you to reach.
- If they get angry or stop replying when you say no, you have your answer.
- Check the number and the photos before you meet.
Frequently asked questions
- It is only a few thousand shillings. Does it matter?
- It is often a test. Someone who gets a small amount easily will come back for more.
Want to know if there are warning signs about the person you're chatting to? Veritaza checks the photos, the messages, the number, the email address, the name and the ID document, for TSh 5,000.
Check a person