Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police has sounded a red alert over a surge in mobile money fraud targeting unsuspecting citizens, with EcoCash users bearing the brunt of the scams.
Online scammers are tricking mobile money transactors into revealing their PINs or OTP messages to reset their credentials, to gain access to their mobile wallets and clean them out.
In a statement issued on 20 January 2026, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi warned that criminals are using fake online promotions, cheap data bundles and quick loan traps to lure victims into handing over their secret details.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police alerts the public regarding fraudulent activities targeting mobile money users, particularly EcoCash customers,” said Comm Nyathi.
He said scammers trick victims into revealing sensitive information such as mobile numbers, PINs and OTPs, giving criminals full access to their wallets.
“The criminals lure their victims using fake online promotions purporting to offer very cheap products, such as cheap data packages or quick loans on easy and attractive repayment terms, to be paid using mobile money,” said Comm Nyathi.
“Once the unsuspecting victim discloses their confidential personal security information (PIN and OTP), the online criminals then gain access to the victim’s mobile money wallet, without the customer’s knowledge and start abusing their funds.”
He urged the public to stay sharp and stop clicking suspicious links flying around on social media.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges the public to be vigilant and exercise caution when opening links from online sources offering deceptively cheap and attractive deals and bargains,” said the commissioner.
He also warned against fake websites and bogus pages using stolen logos of mobile money companies.
“Exercise caution when you come across websites or messages using fake logos of mobile money companies such as EcoCash, One Money or claiming to use the mobile money platform as a means of payment.”
Comm Nyathi reminded users that genuine mobile money platforms will never ask for PINs, OTPs or request transfers for so called safe keeping.
“NEVER share your secret PIN or OTP with anyone. The mobile money service providers, such as EcoCash or OneMoney, will NEVER ask their customers for this information,” he said. “Genuine mobile money platforms will never ask their customers to transfer money to another person’s wallet or bank account for safe keeping.”
Comm Nyathi said police are working closely with mobile money companies and other law enforcement agencies to hunt down the fraudsters and protect the public.
Victims of mobile money fraud, he said, should report cases to the Police National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703 631 or WhatsApp 0712 800 197 or visit the nearest police station.
Comm Nyathi encouraged the public to only participate in promotions run on verified and legitimate mobile money platforms.
