Too Good to Be True :When Online Opportunities Look Too Good to Be True | Safer Internet Day 2025
Akili Network
Creators of Akili Kids!; the most trusted brand for children, parents and caregivers in Kenya.
Despair. A sunken heart. That stomach-twisting, cold-sweat kind of realization. This was a proper hands-over-head moment.
Just minutes earlier, I had received a WhatsApp message from my colleague. He needed help, a request he had never made before. Kshs 50,000 to pay a vendor. It sounded urgent and important, and without hesitation, I sent the money to the number provided. I didn’t think to verify, even though his office was just a few doors away.
Then came the whispers. Several colleagues looked up from their laptops, concern etched on their faces. “Has anyone else gotten a weird message from our colleague!?” someone asked.
"Which message?!" I blurted, already dreading the answer.
We rushed to his office, desperate for a plot twist that would undo the last few minutes. But reality hit hard. He had sent no such message. I had been scammed. And I wasn’t the only one, two other colleagues had also wired money to the so-called vendor.
We acted fast, calling the telecom company to report the fraudster’s number. They promised to investigate and advised us to file a police report. We did. Some victims in similar cases had managed to recover their money. We weren’t that lucky.
The Changing Face of Online Scams
In today’s hyper-connected world, the internet is an incredible tool for learning, connection, and growth. But as our digital lives expand, so do the risks. This Safer Internet Day, we focus on a growing threat: the evolution of online scams and how to protect ourselves from increasingly sophisticated cyber fraud.
Gone are the days when scams were obvious. Cybercriminals have mastered the art of deception, using technology and psychological manipulation to make their schemes more convincing than ever. From fake mobile money messages to AI-generated deepfakes, the online threat landscape has never been more treacherous.
How Scammers Trick You
They exploit human emotions and urgency to cloud judgment. Some of their favorite tactics include:
The Rise of AI-Powered Scams
Artificial intelligence is now a weapon in scammers’ arsenals, making fraud more sophisticated and harder to detect. Deepfake technology can create realistic videos or audio recordings that impersonate real people, while AI-generated phishing emails feel personal and legitimate, increasing their success rate.
Common AI Scams to Watch For:
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Take Action: Protect Yourself Online
Awareness is your best defense. Here’s how you can stay one step ahead of scammers:
Stay Curious – If you receive an unsolicited message, email, or job offer, confirm its authenticity through official channels before responding or sharing information.
Layers Are Your Friend – Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). An extra security step can prevent unauthorized access.
TMI Alert! – Be mindful of what you post online—scammers use social media to personalize their attacks.
Bulletproof Passwords – Use strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager. Avoid reusing passwords across accounts.
Annoying but Necessary Updates – Regularly update your software and apps to be protected from security vulnerabilities.
Monitor Your Finances – Check your bank statements often for any suspicious activity.
What Parents and Guardians Can Do
Children and teens are especially vulnerable to online scams. It’s crucial to guide them in developing safe internet habits.
?????? Talk About It – Make your kids comfortable discussing suspicious messages or interactions with you.
?? Set Digital Boundaries – Establish clear family guidelines on what personal information can be shared online.
?? Lead by Example – Show your children how to practice critical thinking and skepticism online.
Be a Digital Guardian
The Internet offers endless opportunities, but with them come risks. Scammers will always find new ways to exploit technology, but with awareness and strong security habits, we can fight back. This Safer Internet Day, let’s commit to protecting ourselves, our families, and our communities.
Kaa Rada!