As the leading provider of mobile money services to Ghanaians, MTN Ghana is trying to raise their awareness of mobile money fraud through a campaign called #U4Know. They want Ghanaians to keep their ‘momo’ wallets safe by remembering these four pieces of advice:
- Never share the PIN number, not even with somebody who says they work for MTN;
- Never discuss the details of the momo wallet with somebody who called you;
- All MTN customer service calls originate with the same specific phone number; and
- Customers should call 100 if they need help.
MTN Ghana has received considerable criticism because its customers are plagued by fraudsters. A recent article on jbKlutse.com began as follows:
Mobile Money fraud on the MTN network is so rampant it can be likened to a virus sweeping through a community. Every user has either had an encounter with the fraudsters or knows someone who did.
However, criticism of MTN Ghana may be unfair. The straightforward advice promoted by their campaign suggests that many Ghanaians are simply naive about the dangers about sharing information with strangers who adopt an official manner or pretend to work for MTN.
The #U4Know campaign will work with community stakeholders including tribal chiefs and religious leaders. The aim is to spread awareness by interacting with customers at places where they gather, including churches, mosques, and lorry parks.
