How to Prevent SIM Swap (Safaricom)
If you want to know how to prevent SIM swap Safaricom, this guide shows official actions you can take right now, what info to keep private, and how Safaricom helps stop unauthorised SIM replacements.
Quick Answer — At a Glance
Dial *100*100# from your Safaricom number to enable SIM-swap protection (whitelist). Safaricom
Activate a SIM lock / PIN and never share your M-Pesa PIN or personal details. Safaricom
Forward suspicious SMS/calls to 333 and report impersonation to Safaricom’s official line 0722 000 000. Safaricom+1
If you suspect a swap attempt, contact Safaricom immediately and use the Ethics/Hotline for serious insider concerns. safaricomethicsline.com
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Turn on Safaricom’s SIM-swap protection
From the Safaricom number you want to protect, dial *100*100#.
This whitelists your line so it can only be swapped at a Safaricom shop or with verified identity. Safaricom
2. Secure your line and accounts
Set or change your SIM PIN in phone settings (SIM PIN prevents physical SIM removal).
Use strong, unique passwords for email and services linked to your number.
Do not store or share your M-Pesa PIN, bank OTPs, or ID number with anyone. Safaricom
3. Minimise personal data exposure
Remove or limit personal details on social media (DOB, mother’s maiden name, pet names, etc.).
Avoid using easily discoverable answers for security questions (first car, childhood street). NC4 | Protecting Kenya’s Cyberpace
4. Monitor for SIM-swap signals
If you suddenly lose signal/data with no reason, check for SMS from Safaricom (they send swap alerts).
Watch for failed logins or OTPs that don’t arrive when you expect them.
If you receive an unexpected SMS about SIM registration, treat it as suspicious and act fast. Safaricom
5. Report and respond immediately
Forward scammy SMS or suspicious numbers to 333 (Safaricom fraud line). Safaricom
Call Safaricom’s official number 0722 000 000 (or dial 100 from a Safaricom line) to report an attempt and request a block. Safaricom+1
For potential insider/serious fraud, use the Safaricom Ethics Hotline / reporting portal. safaricomethicsline.com
Important Notes / Tips
Only enable *100*100# from your own Safaricom number — it cannot be set by someone else for you. Safaricom
Safaricom will only call from 0722 000 000 — any other number claiming to be Safaricom is likely fake. Safaricom
Keep backups: register a secondary contact method (email) with banks/services where possible and use app-based authenticators (Google Authenticator) instead of SMS for critical accounts.
Regularly check your M-Pesa and bank statements for unknown activity; report discrepancies immediately.
FAQs
Q: What does dialing *100*100# do?
A: It activates Safaricom’s SIM-swap protection (whitelist) so your SIM can only be replaced in person at an official Safaricom shop or via verified channels. Safaricom
Q: If my SIM is swapped, what should I do first?
A: Contact Safaricom immediately (dial 100 from another Safaricom line or call 0722 000 000), forward scam messages to 333, and contact your bank to freeze accounts if money is at risk. Safaricom+1
Q: Can Safaricom stop insider fraud?
A: Safaricom has an Ethics Hotline and fraud teams to investigate insider involvement; report suspicious internal behaviour through the Ethics portal. safaricomethicsline.com
Q: Are there tech steps to reduce risk beyond Safaricom tools?
A: Yes — use app-based authenticators, strong passwords, unique email addresses for important services, and avoid SMS-based 2FA where possible. NC4 | Protecting Kenya’s Cyberpace
