The National Employment Authority (NEA) of Kenya has issued a public warning about scammers using a specific phone number to pose as its officials and target jobseekers. The NEA identified the number 0747470026 as being used by fraudsters who falsely claim to represent the authority. The authority has stated that this number is not affiliated with them in any way and has urged the public to report any contact from it.
The warning comes amid a surge in fraudulent recruitment schemes targeting Kenyans seeking employment, particularly overseas opportunities. Scammers often pose as government officials or licensed recruitment agents to exploit jobseekers. They use tactics such as demanding payment for processing fees, visa applications, medical examinations, or training in exchange for non-existent job placements.
The NEA has directed the public to ignore calls or messages from the flagged number, refrain from sharing personal information, and not send money or act on instructions from the caller. The authority has also provided a toll-free number, 0800 222 223, for Kenyans who suspect they have been targeted. Additionally, they can reach out to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations if they have already lost money.
To verify the authenticity of a recruitment agency, the NEA advises jobseekers to confirm that the agency is duly registered with the authority and listed on the NEAIMS portal. They should also verify that the job they are applying for can be independently checked through the same portal. Warning signs of scams include requests for payment through mobile money to personal numbers and pressure to pay before verification is complete.
The NEA had previously cautioned the public about Nduanny Global Consultancy, urging jobseekers to confirm the registration of any agency handling their recruitment. The authority provides a QR code through which jobseekers can verify available opportunities on NEAIMS. Before committing funds, NEA advises keeping records of all communications, including phone numbers, messages, and payment receipts, to support a report if needed.
Kenyans can also verify opportunities available on NEAIMS using a QR code provided by the authority. The NEAIMS portal allows jobseekers to check the registration status of recruitment agencies and verify job offers. This can help prevent jobseekers from falling victim to scams.
The NEA has been working to raise awareness about fraudulent recruitment schemes and protect jobseekers from exploitation. By verifying the authenticity of recruitment agencies and being cautious of warning signs, Kenyans can reduce their risk of being targeted by scammers.
Key points
- The National Employment Authority has identified phone number 0747470026 as being used by scammers posing as its officials.
- The authority has urged jobseekers to confirm the registration of recruitment agencies and verify job offers through the NEAIMS portal.
- Kenyans can report suspected scams to the NEA through its toll-free number, 0800 222 223, or reach out to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations if money has already been lost.
