Silaa: Cyber security key to growth
ARUSHA: THE safety and security of communication networks are essential for building consumer confidence and trust, which in turn contribute to the growth of mobile money services, said the Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Mr Jerry Silaa.
While launching the second phase of the “SITAPELIKI” educational programme on network safety in Arusha over the weekend, minister Silaa said that network fraud undermines the government’s efforts to build a financially inclusive society and a digital economy in Tanzania.
He noted that mobile money accounts have enabled many Tanzanians to access and utilise various financial products and services.
The minister reported a 139 per cent increase in mobile money accounts over the past five years, growing from 26,503,777 in 2020 to 63,207,569 by December 2024.
He said, in addition to facilitating efficient service delivery, mobile and digital financial services have lowered costs for individuals and organisations, while also improving financial control and management.
However, mobile network fraud continues to be a problem, with fraudsters targeting unsuspecting consumers and mobile money agents.
These criminals swap SIM cards and steal personal identities. Victims often unknowingly share personal information, including account authentication and authorisation codes, leading to theft from mobile money wallets and bank accounts.
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Fraudsters also post links to fake websites on the internet. The first phase of the educational campaign followed a November 2024 stakeholder meeting that adopted a plan of action to combat mobile phone and internet fraud.
A report from the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) presented at the meeting, chaired by minister Silaa, revealed that fraud incidents had increased in certain regions and networks, despite a 28 per cent overall decrease between June and September 2024.
TCRA’s December 2024 State of Communications report showed a 19 per cent decrease in reported fraud cases, from 16,002 in September to 12,896 between October and December 2024.
However, Rukwa and Morogoro regions were the most affected, accounting for 74 per cent of the reported incidents. Rukwa recorded 5,305 incidents, while Morogoro had 4,278.
Although Rukwa’s figures showed a reduction from 5,571 in September, the region still accounted for 41 per cent of the fraud cases reported nationwide.
TCRA Director General Dr Jabiri Bakari urged Tanzanians to remain vigilant against mobile network fraud and report any incidents to TCRA using the toll-free code 15040.
The TCRA-led nationwide campaign aims to raise public awareness about digital opportunities and cybersecurity.
It includes messages and tips on mobile network safety and cybersecurity best practices
