What to Check Before Sending Mobile Money to Anyone
Name confirmation, a reference note and a short pause stop most mobile money scams. A checklist to run before sending money to a seller, relative, agent or stranger.
Mobile money is fast, which is its strength and its risk. Once money lands in a scammer's wallet, it can be withdrawn in minutes. These checks take less time than the scammer's story.
The checklist
- Do I know who this really is? If the request came by message or call, confirm with a call to a number you already had.
- Does the name match? Read the registered name on the confirmation screen before entering your PIN. See checking the recipient.
- Why the rush? Deadlines, threats and secrecy are signs of a scam.
- Have I received what I am paying for? For goods, pay on collection where possible. See pay-on-delivery scams.
- Is it a "refund" or "reversal"? Check your real balance first. See the reversal scam.
- Add a reference describing the payment.
"Send it to my other number" or "to my friend's number" are common scam lines. Be very cautious when the name does not match.
Requests that should always make you stop
- A relative asking from a new number. See family impersonation.
- "Customer care" asking you to send or approve anything. See fake customer care.
- A fee to receive a prize, loan or job. See fake promotions.
For more, see our guide to mobile money and banking scams.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important check?
That the registered name shown before you confirm matches the person or business you intend to pay.
Why pause?
Most scams rely on urgency. A few minutes to call and check breaks the pressure.
Should I add a reference?
Yes. A short note, such as the item or invoice, helps your provider and the police trace the payment if something goes wrong.
Sources
- Mobile Payment Apps: How To Avoid a Scam When You Use One, US Federal Trade Commission
- Scammers Use Fake Emergencies To Steal Your Money, US Federal Trade Commission
- Scam Advice, GSMA
