The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) George Kinoti has urged members of the public to take precautionary measures while shopping online during the festive season.
Kinoti observed that many shoppers have fallen victim to these scams and many others might fall gullible to scammers this festive season.
“We, therefore, advise the public to take precaution while engaging in online business dealings, to avoid falling prey to online scammers and fraudsters,” Kinoti cautioned.
The director further appealed to all shoppers to only deal with trusted online vendors.
He cited a growing trend where fraudsters mimic websites belonging to established vendors and defraud them.
“Many shoppers have fallen victim. We, therefore, advise the public to take precaution while engaging in online business dealings, to avoid falling prey to online scammers and fraudsters.”
Kenyans have also been advised against lowering their guard when dealing with doorstep deliveries.
“Be careful about who you choose to make deliveries to your house. As a safety precaution, turn down deliveries from agents who show up at your door without your request, as they may have an ulterior motive,” the DCI said on Thursday.
The national crime buster body urged buyers to shop from trusted online vendors and be wary of a growing trend where fraudsters mimic websites belonging to established vendors and defraud them.
“Equally, lower no cautionary guard when dealing with doorstep deliveries and be careful about who you choose to make deliveries to your house. As a safety precaution, turn down deliveries from agents who show up at your door without your request, as they may have an ulterior motive,” DCI added.
In case of any threat, members of the public have been advised to dial the DCI toll-free number 0800 722 203 for assistance.