Computech Solutions
Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking for Business and Personal Protection
Mobile money services has changed financial transactions in Zambia, providing convenience and accessibility. However, as mobile money usage expands, so do cyber threats. Attacker (scammers) exploit vulnerabilities in mobile money systems to steal money from unsuspecting users. Therefore this article explores common hacking methods, real-world scenarios, and preventive measures to safeguard mobile money accounts and transactions in Zambia.
Common Mobile Money Hacking Methods
Scammers (Cybercriminals) use various tactics to manipulate mobile money accounts. And here are some of the most common methods:
- Phishing Attacks
Phishing involves forcing the users into revealing sensitive information such as mobile PINs and passwords. Scammers sends fake messages or emails pretending to be from service providers, pretending to be from community development funds Agency (CDF) or Other sectors that deal with money in Zambia like Banks and Capital Banks, asking users to confirm their details.
- SIM Swap Fraud
Scammers still mobile numbers by getting a duplicate SIM cards and once they gain control they reset PINs code and withdraw the money in the accounts linked to the number.
- USSD Interception
Using of unprotected USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) transactions can be intercepted, allowing scammers to gain access to mobile money accounts.
- Fake Mobile Money Apps
Scammers create mobile money apps that look identical to legitimate ones, tricking users into entering their account credentials.
Notable Cases of Mobile Money Fraud in Zambia
There have been multiple reports of mobile money fraud in Zambia, where a lot of people have lost a lot amounts of money. Some incidents involve scammers working with faculty member from telecom companies, while others are target users through deceptive calls and SMS scams.