How can I tell if a mobile money SMS is fake?
Check the sender and your real balance. A real MoMo or Airtel Money message comes from the provider's official sender name, and the money shows in your balance. A message from an ordinary number is a red flag.
Fake SMS messages are used by "buyers" on Jiji and Facebook, by people claiming money was sent by mistake and by fake agents. They copy the wording, amounts and even transaction IDs.
The only reliable proof is your balance in the official menu or app.
How to check
- Look at who sent it: a normal phone number is a red flag.
- Dial the official menu or open the official app and check your balance.
- Do not hand over goods until the money shows in your balance.
- Be wary of a caller rushing you right after the SMS.
Frequently asked questions
- They also sent a screenshot of the payment. Is that proof?
- No. Screenshots are easy to edit. Only your own balance counts.
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