The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Thursday, December 17 warned online shoppers against falling prey to scammers.
The investigative agency revealed that there has been a surge in online shopping scams during the December Holidays.
"Many shoppers have fallen victim to the scammers. We, therefore, advise the public to take precaution while engaging in online business dealings, to avoid falling prey to online scammers and fraudsters," DCI stated.
DCI urged Kenyans to shop from trusted online vendors adding that they should be wary of fraudsters who mirror websites belonging to established vendors.
Kenyans who opt for home deliveries were also directed to be cautious when dealing with riders and individuals they allow into their houses.
The public was asked to adopt a safety precaution and turn down deliveries from agents who show up to doorsteps without request, as they may have an ulterior motive.
In the event of a security threat, the sleuths advised the public to dial the DCI toll-free number 0800 722 203 for assistance.
Thousands of Kenyans have embraced the online shopping trend ahead of Christmas that is traditionally associated with giving and gifting.
The rise in online scams also placed Kenya on the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) radar while warning that cybercrime is soaring in the East African nation.
An Interpol report dated August 14, detailed that online organised crime in Kenya and other African states is being motivated by digitisation which makes it easier for criminals to target unsuspecting prey.
Detectives from DCI also arrested a suspect in a syndicate running a scam operation through various mediums including WhatsApp back in August.
The sleuths revealed that the suspect used different online platforms including WhatsApp and emails to lure buyers but would disappear upon receiving payment from unsuspecting victims.
