Cyber scams hit 82% of Kenyans as online gaming becomes top target
Hundreds of Kenyans are being hit by online fraud, and the gaming industry is now the main target for cybercriminals, a new report shows.
TransUnion, a global information firm, says 82 per cent of Kenyans were targeted by fraudsters in the last six months of 2024, a rise from 80 per cent earlier in the year.
The number of people who actually lost money also went up, from 8 per cent to 11 per cent.
Citing the report, The EastLeigh Voice estimates that each victim lost an average of $897, or about 116,000 Kenyan shillings, which indicates a growing financial burden caused by digital scams.
Online gaming, especially gambling and poker platforms, has emerged as the most affected sector in Kenya.
The rise in fraud comes as more young people engage with online games and betting platforms.
But this is not only peculiar in Kenya; globally, the gaming industry is among the top three sectors most hit by fraud, behind online forums and video gaming platforms.
Communities such as dating sites and discussion forums saw the highest rate of suspected fraud at 11.6 per cent in 2024, according to the report.
Fraud linked to gaming platforms rose by 20 per cent last year, while other areas, including logistics, jumped by over 100 per cent, government services, and financial institutions.
The most common method used by fraudsters in Kenya was smishing, which involves using fraudulent text messages that trick users into revealing personal details or clicking harmful links.
These messages often appear to come from trusted organisations, making them harder to detect.
TransUnion warns that fraud tactics are becoming more advanced, with criminals adapting quickly to new technologies and consumer habits.
