How reversal scams usually work
You receive a message or call claiming money was sent to you by mistake, followed by pressure to send it back immediately.
The message may look like an M-PESA SMS, but screenshots and copied text are easy to fake.
M-PESA scams
M-PESA reversal scam warning signs in Kenya
Reversal scams use fake urgency and copied SMS formats to make you send money before checking your actual M-PESA balance and transaction history.
What to do first
Check your actual M-PESA balance and transaction history. Do not rely on a forwarded screenshot or SMS-style message.
If a number pressures you, search it on ScamBusterKE and contact Safaricom through official support channels.
Common questions
Should I reverse money after a stranger calls me?
Only act after checking your real M-PESA transaction history. If you did not receive money, do not send anything back.
Can scammers fake M-PESA messages?
They can imitate SMS formats in screenshots or copied messages. Verify inside your M-PESA account, not from a message alone.
Check before you pay
Search any suspicious identifier, then report it if you have evidence that can warn others.
Start a scam check