Beware: “Sonko Loan App” is a Scam Targeting Kenyans with Fake Loan Offers
In the digital age, fraudsters are getting smarter, preying on the urgent financial needs of unsuspecting Kenyans. One of the latest scams making rounds in the country is a fraudulent mobile application known as the “Sonko Loan App.” The app claims to offer quick loans ranging from KES 100 to KES 70,000, boasting interest rates as low as 1% per month. While these offers may sound appealing to many struggling Kenyans, the app is nothing but a well-orchestrated scam.
Not Associated with Mike Sonko
The name “Sonko” in the app is a deliberate attempt to deceive the public by impersonating former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko. The former governor has already come out to distance himself from the app, making it clear that he has no affiliation or involvement with the so-called Sonko Loan App. In a statement released early last year, Mike Sonko warned Kenyans to be cautious and avoid any apps or services using his name for fraudulent purposes.
Red Flags
Several red flags point to the fraudulent nature of the Sonko Loan App:
- Lack of registration with the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).
- No verified customer service channels.
- Suspicious permissions during app installation.
- Reports from victims who never received the promised loans but had their personal data misused.
If you have come across this app, do not download or use it. Sharing personal information or making any payments could expose you to identity theft, financial loss, or even legal issues.
Safe Alternatives: CBK-Approved Digital Loan Apps
For Kenyans in need of genuine financial assistance, there are regulated and CBK-licensed digital lenders that operate transparently and within the legal framework. Below are some genuine loan apps in Kenya approved by the Central Bank of Kenya:
- M-Shwari (by Safaricom and NCBA Bank)
- KCB M-Pesa (by Safaricom and KCB Bank)
- Zenka
- Tala
- Branch
- Timiza (by Absa Bank)
- Okash
- iPesa
- Stawika
- HF Whizz (by Housing Finance Bank)
You can find the full list of licensed Digital Credit Providers (DCPs) on the official website of the Central Bank of Kenya: www.centralbank.go.ke
Final Word
As financial scams become more sophisticated, Kenyans must exercise vigilance. Always verify whether a lender is registered and licensed by the CBK before engaging. If an offer sounds too good to be true, itIf you suspect a scam or have already fallen victim to one like the Sonko Loan App, report it to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Communications Authority of Kenya immediately.