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How Consumers Can Stay Secure From The Language Of Fraud
Over-confidence is leaving consumers in Kenya at risk of becoming victims of fraud, according to Visa’s latest Stay Secure study.
Research across 17 countries in Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa (CEMEA) revealed a disconnect between consumers’ confidence in recognizing fraud and their online behavior, highlighting the importance of staying alert and mindful of fraud attempts. Despite more than half of consumers (65 percent vs 56 percent global average) claiming to be savvy enough to sidestep online and phone scams, 90 percent are likely to disregard the warning signs that suggest online criminal activity. On average millennials and Gen Zers are least likely to respond to a requested action by a scammer in a text message or email, 38 percent and 42 percent respectively, whilst boomers respond to 2 in 3 such requests (67 percent).
The study forms Visa’s Stay Secure Campaign, focused on raising consumer awareness, strengthening education, and building confidence to combat social engineering threats. The campaign aims to pave the way for a secure and seamless digital payments experience. Through this initiative, Visa provides educational content, including videos, infographics, and tips designed to equip consumers with the knowledge and skills to recognize and prevent fraud. Nearly three-quarters of Kenyans (74 percent) surveyed have been a victim of a scam at least once in their life and are most concerned that their family or friends will fall victim to a fake recruiter on career networking or job sites (75 percent) or investment scams promising financial gain (67 percent).
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“In today’s digital-first world, scams are evolving in sophistication, with criminals using new approaches to trick unsuspecting consumers. Whether it’s a parcel held up at customs, a streaming subscription claiming to have expired, or a free voucher for a favorite brand, scammers are adopting persuasive tactics to deceive. Understanding the language of fraud is increasingly essential, and our Visa Stay Secure educational platform provides the knowledge and skills to help stay ahead of fraudulent activity online,” explains Eva Ngigi-Sarwari, Acting General Manager for East Africa and Country Manager for Kenya at Visa.
Among the key findings of the Visa Stay Secure Study is the knowledge gap where people who consider themselves knowledgeable might actually make them more vulnerable. The same way false confidence can propel someone to click on a fake link or respond to a scam offer. Those who consider themselves more knowledgeable are more likely to respond to a requested action from scammers compared to those who say they are less knowledgeable, including positive news or urgent action.
While respondents feel confident in their own vigilance, over half are concerned that their friends or families will fall for a scam email offering a free gift card or product from an online shopping site. Around 27 percent of respondents expressed their concern about children or minors as well as retired people falling prey to these online scams.
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In addition to notices involving orders, product offers, or feedback, people are most suspicious of password requests. Less suspicious types of communications are updates regarding delivery or shipping, marketing communications regarding a sale or new product offering, or an invitation to provide feedback on a recent experience all of which can be used by scammers.
The study indicates that confidence in the ability to spot a scam, and the vulnerability it may bring, is highest in countries like Qatar (69 percent), Kenya (65 percent), South Africa (65 percent), Saudi Arabia (64 percent), and Nigeria (63 percent).