Kenya weighs AI and cybercrime risks

Kenya is warning about the growing risks of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered cybercrime as the country expands its digital economy. Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has called for stronger cybersecurity measures to protect individuals, businesses and government institutions from emerging online threats.

Speaking at the Safaricom Cyber Security Summit 2026 on October 14, Kabogo said AI could improve public services, business efficiency and cyber threat detection. However, he warned that the technology also creates opportunities for criminals to carry out more sophisticated attacks.

According to "The Star Kenya", the warning comes as Kenya works to advance digital transformation while protecting citizens and critical infrastructure.

##How AI Makes Scams More Dangerous

AI can help criminals create convincing messages, impersonate trusted individuals and manipulate digital content. These tools can make scams harder to recognise, even for people who regularly use the internet.

One example is phishing, a type of scam in which criminals send messages pretending to represent banks, government agencies or other trusted organisations. A victim might receive a text warning that their bank account will be blocked unless they click a link. The link could lead to a fake website designed to steal their passwords or banking information.

Another example involves AI-generated voices. A scammer could imitate a relative's voice and call someone asking for emergency money. The victim might believe the call is genuine and send money without checking the story.

Kabogo identified AI-powered fraud, phishing attacks, identity impersonation and manipulated digital content among the emerging threats requiring attention. He called for stronger governance, accountability, human oversight and data protection.

##What Ordinary Users Should Watch Out For

As Kenya's digital economy grows, people need to be more careful when using mobile money services, banking applications and social media.

Users should avoid clicking suspicious links, sharing passwords or revealing verification codes to strangers. Anyone receiving an urgent request for money should contact the supposed sender through a trusted phone number before making a payment.

Strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication can also help protect online accounts. People should keep their devices updated and remember that realistic voices, videos and professional-looking messages do not automatically prove that a request is genuine.

These precautions are important for Kenya AI cybercrime prevention because criminals can exploit trust and human error, not just weaknesses in computer systems.

## Strengthening Africa's Cybersecurity

The challenge extends beyond Kenya. Across the continent, Africa cybersecurity efforts must keep pace with the growing use of digital financial services and artificial intelligence.

Safaricom chief executive Peter Ndegwa said public trust would be crucial to Africa's successful adoption of AI. The company is using AI-powered models to identify potentially fraudulent transaction patterns, according to The Star Kenya.

Governments, businesses and technology providers must work together to improve security systems and educate the public about AI scam risks.

Artificial intelligence can support economic growth, but its benefits depend on responsible use and effective safeguards. For ordinary users, checking suspicious messages and verifying requests before sending money remain simple ways to reduce the risk of becoming a victim.