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From: kictanet-bounces+eadera=idrc.or.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke [kictanet-bounces+eadera=idrc.or.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of Francis.Hook@gmail.com [Francis.Hook@gmail.com]
Sent: 15 March 2011 15:37
To: Edith Adera
Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions
Subject: [kictanet] problem inherent in how mobile money transactions are done

I have a colleague who received a rather suspect SMS that, at first glance seemed to advise of money rcvd from someone and a few minutes later someone called to say he had sent the money and error and has a crisis of sorts and would like the money sent back. I have seen this twice. Tricksters at work.

When using mobile money I have always wondered about the privacy of such transactions since one is required to sign a sheet with details of the transactions - details which are clearly visible to everyone. I note both ZAP and Mpesa have such sheets. It would only take a keen eye to quickly pick out a number next to a high value, memorise it - under the pretext of doing a small transaction and then claim a victim within hours of the person depositing money into their account.

I suppose unregistered mobile numbers must now be de-activated ASAP.

Be on the look out.