How to Report a Scam in Major African Countries – Complete Guide

Scams are a serious and growing issue in parts of Africa, affecting both residents and international victims. Whether it’s online dating scams, investment fraud, lottery hoaxes, fake job offers, or advance fee schemes, knowing how to report these crimes properly is essential for authorities to track and stop the criminals.

Below, you’ll find detailed instructions for reporting scams in the most affected African countries, including official contacts, online forms, and tips to make your report effective.

Quick Reference Table – Scam Reporting Contacts

Nigeria – Report a Scam

Why Nigeria?
Nigeria is one of the most recognized origins of online fraud, often referred to as “419 scams.” These involve promises of large sums of money in exchange for advance fees, romance scams, fake job offers, and crypto investment fraud.

Where to Report:

• EFCC (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) – Nigeria’s main anti-fraud body.
  Website: https://www.efcc.gov.ng
  Email: [email protected]
  Hotline: +234 9 904 4751

• Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Unit – Handles internet fraud reports.

Tips:

• Include all emails, phone numbers, and bank account details provided by the scammer.

• Never send money to recover lost funds unless through legitimate government programs.

Ghana – Report a Scam

Why Ghana?
Ghana has been identified as a source of romance scams, fake gold deals, property fraud, and advance fee schemes targeting overseas victims.

Where to Report:

• Ghana Police Service – CID Anti-Human Trafficking and Cybercrime Unit
  Website: https://police.gov.gh
  Email: [email protected]
  Hotline: +233 302 773 906

Tips:

• Provide chat logs, payment receipts, and any identification documents the scammer shared.

• Be wary of “lawyers” or “police officers” who demand money to release your funds.

Kenya – Report a Scam

Why Kenya?
Kenya has witnessed a rise in online fraud cases, including fake charity requests, loan scams, and identity theft.

Where to Report:

• Kenya Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) – Cybercrime Unit
  Website: https://www.cid.go.ke
  Twitter (Active Reports): https://twitter.com/DCI_Kenya
  Hotline: +254 20 334 1411

Tips:

• Never pay a “clearance” or “processing fee” to strangers.

• Use local police stations if you are unable to contact the cybercrime unit directly.

South Africa – Report a Scam

Why South Africa?
South Africa is a hotspot for phishing scams, online marketplace fraud, and business email compromise (BEC) scams.

Where to Report:

• South African Police Service (SAPS) – Cybercrime Division
  Website: https://www.saps.gov.za
  Hotline: 10111 (Local) / +27 12 393 1000 (International)

• South African Fraud Prevention Service (SAFPS) – For identity theft cases.
  Website: https://www.safps.org.za

Tips:

• Report phishing emails to your bank immediately.

• Keep all transaction records and screenshots.

Morocco – Report a Scam

Why Morocco?
Morocco has been associated with tech support scams, travel booking fraud, and the sale of counterfeit products.

Where to Report:

• Moroccan Police Cybercrime Unit
  Website: http://www.dgsn.gov.ma
  Email: [email protected]
  Hotline: +212 537 66 20 40

Tips:

• Avoid making payments through unofficial platforms.

• Always check if a business is licensed in Morocco before sending money.