In recent times, digital lending platforms have become popular in Kenya, with 55 out of every 100 Kenyans using them for quick and accessible loans. However, amidst the convenience, there’s a rising concern about fake loan apps in Kenya scamming people out of their hard-earned money.
Research by Reel Analytics shows a significant increase in the number of digital lenders and loans in Kenya. The State of Digital Lending Report by Reel Analytics notes that 55 out of 100 Kenyans surveyed have taken loans from digital lending platforms, with the majority of users in urban areas.
Yet despite the benefits of digital lending, some Kenyans have fallen victim to fake loan apps. These fake loan apps in Kenya are not only a financial risk but also a threat to personal information. The Digital Lenders Association of Kenya warns against these fraudulent apps.
List of Fake Loan Apps in Keny
Here are the fake loan apps in Kenya you should avoid:
- Mokash
- Okash
- Wachukuliwe
- Hatua
- Kali
How to Spot Fake Loan Apps in Kenya
- No Physical Address. Legitimate apps provide clear physical addresses, while fake ones often hide this information. Always check for a proper address before considering a loan.
- Unnecessary Permissions. Fake apps in Kenya tend to collect excessive personal data without considering the borrower’s ability to repay. Be cautious if an app requests access to personal photos and contacts.
- Require Registration Fees. Fake apps may ask for a registration fee upfront. Legitimate ones deduct fees directly from the borrowed amount.
- No Website Verification. Check the website’s URL. Legitimate loan sites use “https,” while “http” indicates a potential risk of data theft if you try to use the website.
- Extremely High-Interest Rates. Fake lenders often target financially desperate individuals with exorbitant interest rates. Verify legitimacy by checking online reviews and ratings.
- Protect Yourself from Scams. So it’s important to be cautious when checking for online loans in Kenya. Never share passwords or private information, as this opens the door for hackers. Google has taken steps to remove unlicensed loan apps, but users must remain vigilant.
How to Report Fake Loan Apps in Kenya
If you encounter a suspicious app, report it to Google Playstore to protect others. Follow these steps:
- Open Google Playstore on your phone.
- Search for the app.
- Click on the app and select “Flag as inappropriate.”
- Choose the reason and submit.
- You can also report fake loan apps to the Digital Lenders Association of Kenya (DLAK), following their outlined steps.
Genuine Best Loan Apps in Kenya
With numerous loan apps available, it’s crucial to choose wisely. Here are some top loan apps in Kenya that also offer CRB checks:
- KCB Mpesa Loan
- Mshwari Loan
- Timiza Loan App
- Mco-opCash Loan
- Branch Loan App
- Tala Loan App
- Zenka Loan App
- Eazzy Loan
Summary
While the digital lending landscape in Kenya offers convenience, it’s essential to stay vigilant against fake loan apps. By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself and ensure a positive borrowing experience as a Kenyan.
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