Home Insights Top 12 Online Scams in Uganda and How to Avoid Them

Top 12 Online Scams in Uganda and How to Avoid Them

November 17, 2024

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Online scams have become a widespread concern in the recent years, with many people falling victim to fraudulent schemes on a daily basis. Uganda is no exception, as scammers continue to find new and innovative ways to con people out of their money.

In this article, “Top 12 Online Scams in Uganda and How to Avoid Them” we will be providing an in-depth look into the most common and prevalent online scams in Uganda in 2024.

These scams range from fake online investment scams, job scams, romance scams to advance fee fraud. It is crucial for individuals to stay vigilant and educate themselves about the various types of scams that are currently being perpetrated in order to protect themselves from falling victim.

We will be providing tips on how to protect yourself from falling victim to these fraudulent schemes as well as what to do in the unlikely event that you have been scammed.

Also read; How to spot an online shopping scam in Uganda

Top online scams in Uganda 2024

Online scams continue to be a problem in Uganda in 2024, with people regularly falling victim to various fraudulent schemes. While many scams are being perpetrated, certain ones are prevalent. The following is a list of 12 online scams that Ugandans still fall for in 2024:

Online investment scams
Online Shopping Scams
Job Scams
Utility Scams
Romance Scams
Advance fee scams
Advance delivery fee scams
Join Illuminati scams
Health scams
Chain referral data mining scams
Task-based scams
Witchdoctor scams

1. Online investment scams

Online investment scams are a type of fraud that targets Uganda individuals looking to invest their money online. These scams often involve the victim being promised high returns on their investment, but the ultimate goal of the scammer is to steal the victim’s money.

For example, a victim may see an advertisement online for a company that claims to be able to double their money within a short time. The victim may be promised high returns on their investment and may even be shown fake testimonials from satisfied customers. The victim may then decide to invest their money with the company, only to realize later that they have been scammed and their money is gone.

Another example of an online investment scam in Uganda is a Ponzi scheme. In a Ponzi scheme, the victim is promised high returns on their investment, but the returns are actually being paid to earlier investors using the money from new investors. Eventually, the scheme collapses, and the victim is left with nothing.

Here is how online investment scams in Uganda typically work:

The victim sees an advertisement for a company or investment opportunity online.
The victim is promised high returns on their investment and may be shown fake testimonials from satisfied customers.
The victim invests their money in the company or opportunity.
The victim does not receive the promised returns on their investment and may be unable to get in touch with the company or individual they invested with.
In some cases, the victim may be part of a Ponzi scheme, where their money is used to pay returns to earlier investors rather than being invested as promised.
The ultimate goal of the scammer is to steal the victim’s money, and the victim may is left with no recourse for recovering their funds.

How to avoid online investment scams in Uganda

To avoid falling victim to online investment scams in Uganda, it is crucial to be vigilant and do your research before investing in any online opportunities. Be skeptical of unsolicited investment offers, especially if they promise high returns with little or no risk.

Refrain from trusting investment opportunities that pressure you to invest quickly before you have had a chance to research the opportunity thoroughly.

Be wary of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages from strangers, and also be cautious of any investment opportunity that promises guaranteed returns.

It’s also advisable to invest in opportunities that are regulated by the relevant authorities, such as the Capital Markets Authority of Uganda.

Verify the authenticity of the online investment platform you are considering by researching the company’s background and checking for any customer reviews or complaints. And if in doubt, seek financial advice from a professional advisor.

2. Online Shopping Scams

I dread online shopping in Uganda, especially on classified sites like Jiji Uganda or Jumia Deals. Con artists on these platforms list expensive products at unbelievably meager prices to attract buyers.

However, when you agree to meet with the seller, you may be met with a gang that will beat you up, rob you, and leave you with nothing. The con artist may also give you a fake product, such as a phone or laptop.

To avoid these scams, it is recommended that you shop from reputable online stores like Condala, Jumia, Dantty, and TilyExpress, which are company-to-customer oriented rather than individual-to-customer-oriented stores.

Here is how online shopping scams in Uganda typically work:

The victim sees an item for sale online, either on a website or social media platform.
The victim contacts the seller and agrees on a price for the item.
The victim is asked to pay for the item, often through mobile money
The victim does not receive the item or receive a fake or inferior version.
The victim cannot get in touch with the seller, or the seller provides excuses or delays in response.
Sometimes, the victim may be physically robbed or assaulted when attempting to meet the seller to receive the item.
The victim is left with no recourse for recovering their money or obtaining the promised item.

How to avoid Online Shopping Scams in Uganda

To avoid falling victim to online shopping scams in Uganda, it’s essential to be vigilant and do your research before making any online purchases. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, and avoid online sellers who do not have a good reputation or established track record.

Always verify the authenticity of an online retailer by checking for a physical address and contact number, and also check customer reviews and complaints.

Look for the padlock icon in the website address bar or “https” which indicates a secure website, and be wary of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages from sellers.

Only use trusted, well-known payment methods such as credit cards or online payment platforms such as mobile money, and only make payment after you have confirmed the goods are in stock and ready for shipment.

It’s also a good practice to keep records of your transactions and print or save copies of the order and invoices.

3. Job Scams

According to Trading Economics, the unemployment rate in Uganda is currently 2.94%. This means that many people are jobless and eager to find work, and scammers take advantage of this by posting fake job opportunities online.

These scammers may ask for a fee to be paid in order to apply for a job or to attend an interview, but the goal is often to steal from the job seeker. Some scammers even impersonate well-known organizations, such as the Red Cross, Uganda Electoral Commission, or the United Nations, and ask for a “commitment fee” to be paid in order to be considered for a job.

However, it is essential to note that genuine job opportunities will never require payment for an application or interview. If you come across a job opportunity that asks for money, it is likely a scam, and you should avoid it.

Here is how online job scams in Uganda typically work:

The victim sees a job opportunity advertised online on a job search website or social media platform.
The victim applies for the job and is contacted by the supposed employer.
The supposed employer asks the victim to pay a fee to apply for the job or attend an interview.
The victim pays the fee, often through mobile money.
The victim does not receive any further communication from the supposed employer or does not receive the promised job.
In some cases, the victim may be asked to provide personal or financial information, which may be used for identity theft or other types of fraud.
The victim may is left with no recourse for recovering their money or obtaining the promised job.

How to avoid job Scams in Uganda

Avoiding job scams in Uganda requires a bit of caution and research. Be wary of job offers that seem too good to be true, particularly those that don’t require any qualifications or experience or ask for an upfront payment.

Never give away personal information or payment information to an unknown entity claiming to be a representative of a company.

When applying for jobs, look for red flags such as poor grammar, spelling errors, or suspicious email addresses.

Research the company and the job opportunity to make sure it’s legitimate. Contact the company directly to inquire about the job opportunity, and be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages from recruiters.

Additionally, do not hesitate to seek help from professional recruiters or career counselors for any doubts. Also, be skeptical of any unsolicited job offer that comes your way, and always verify the authenticity of the job opportunity before proceeding further.

4. Utility Scams

Utility scams are a type of online scam that is very prevalent online in Uganda. These scams involve scammers pretending to sell cheap internet data, pay TV vouchers, or electricity bill vouchers. The scammers will often advertise these products at a significantly lower price than what they can be purchased from legitimate utility companies.

To carry out the scam, the scammer typically reaches out to potential victims through social media or online classifieds websites. They offer cheap utility products and ask for payment upfront. The scammer often avoids meeting in person to receive the payment and will ask for the money to be transferred digitally through mobile money.

Once the victim has made the payment, the scammer either blocks the victim’s contact number or disappears without delivering the promised products. The victim is left without the purchased utilities, and their money, too stolen by the scammer.

Here is how utility scams in Uganda typically work:

The scammer will advertise cheap utility products, such as internet data, pay TV vouchers, or electricity bill vouchers, online through social media or classifieds websites.
The victim will express interest in the product, and the scammer will ask for payment upfront.
The scammer will request that the payment be made electronically through mobile money payment.
Once the payment is made, the scammer will either block the victim’s contact information or disappear, never delivering the promised products.
The victim is left without the purchased utilities and their money stolen by the scammer.

How to avoid Utility scams in Uganda

To avoid falling victim to utility scams in Uganda, it’s crucial to be aware of scammers’ common tactics and exercise caution when purchasing online. Look out for deals that seem too good to be true, such as unreasonably low prices for internet data, pay TV vouchers, or electricity bill vouchers.

Only purchase utilities from well-established trusted utility companies and make payments through legitimate channels to stay protected.

Also, be mindful of the company’s communication method, and always initiate a conversation or a call before any transaction. And if in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek help from the relevant authorities.

5. Romance Scams

As a matter of fact, online dating rarely leads to a perfect couple. Despite this fact, many Ugandans flock to online dating sites in search of partners, but behind those attractive profiles are often romance scammers.

These individuals frequently establish a solid online relationship with their target, only to request money for various expenses later. These requests are often outrageous, and the scammer may even promise to pay back the borrowed funds in double, only to disappear once the money has been transferred to their account.

These scammers often pretend to be from developed countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, or the US and may even pretend to send their victims nonexistent “gifts” worth large sums of money. However, when these packages arrive in Uganda, the scammer may collude with a fellow scammer in Uganda who pretends to be a customs officer and asks for additional funds to cover customs fees.

Of course, their ultimate target is the money for customs, and once it is sent, they will block the victim, and the story will come to an end. These types of romance scams often have a network of individuals working together, with agents located in various countries, to collect money from victims.

Here is how online romance scams in Uganda typically work:

The victim sees a profile of an attractive individual on an online dating website or social media platform.
The victim establishes an online relationship with the scammer, who frequently pretends to be from a developed country such as the UK, Canada, Australia, or the US.
The scammer requests money for various expenses, such as travel costs, medical bills, or other emergencies.
The victim sends the money through Mobile Money, wire transfer, or Western Union.
The scammer may promise to pay back the borrowed funds in double but disappears once the money has been transferred.
In some cases, the scammer may send the victim fake “gifts” worth large sums of money, which may be intercepted by a fellow scammer pretending to be a customs officer and asking for additional funds to cover customs fees.
The ultimate goal of the scammer is to obtain the money for customs, and once it is sent, the scammer will block the victim, and the scam will come to an end.
This scam often involves a network of individuals working with agents in various countries to collect money from victims.

How to avoid romance scams in Uganda

Avoiding romance scams in Uganda requires being cautious and aware of the common tactics used by scammers. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to be skeptical of online lovers who request money for various expenses or promise to pay back borrowed funds in double.

Only send money to someone you have met, and be careful of individuals who pretend to be from developed countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, or the US.

Be wary of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages from online contacts. Be wary of individuals who send you fake gifts or ask for additional funds to cover customs fees.

It’s always safer to communicate with people you’ve met through reputable dating platforms but only disclose personal information once you can trust the person.

It’s also a good idea to report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities and online platforms.

6. Advance fee scams

Advance fee scams, also known as “advance fee” or “419” scams, are a type of scam in which the victim is promised a large sum of money in exchange for an upfront payment. These scams are often carried out online but may also be conducted over the phone. In Uganda, advance fee scams often target individuals seeking investment opportunities or employment.

Here is how advance pay scams in Uganda typically work:

The victim is contacted by the scammer, who claims to be able to provide a large sum of money, often through inheritance, a lottery win, or unclaimed funds.
The scammer may provide fake documents or other convincing evidence to support their claims.
The victim is then told that in order to receive the promised funds, they must pay an upfront fee to cover expenses such as taxes, legal fees, or bank charges.
The victim pays the fee, often through mobile money, and the scammer disappears with the money.
The victim is left with no money and no way to recover their funds.

How to avoid advance fee scams in Uganda

To avoid falling victim to an advance fee scam in Uganda, it’s essential to be vigilant and skeptical of unsolicited offers, particularly those that promise a large sum of money in exchange for an upfront payment.

Be wary of high-pressure tactics, and do not rush into any decision. Never provide personal or financial information to unknown parties, and always verify the authenticity of the person or company you are dealing with.

Be suspicious of any unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages. Do your own research, and if you have any doubts, seek help from relevant authorities or financial advisors.

Be especially cautious of any request for money to cover expenses such as taxes, legal fees, or bank charges, and never make payment to an unknown person or organization.

Remember, legitimate businesses and individuals will not ask for an upfront fee before providing a service or good.

7. Advance delivery fee scams

Advance delivery fee scams are a common type of online shopping scam that Ugandans still fall for in 2024. In these scams, the victim sees an item for sale online, either on a website or social media platform, and decides to purchase it.

The victim contacts the seller and agrees on a price for the item. However, the seller then asks the victim to pay a fee in advance for the delivery of the item, often claiming that it is necessary to cover shipping costs, fuel, or customs duties if the scammer is posing to be abroad.

The victim pays the fee, often through mobile money, wire transfer, or western union, but then does not receive the purchased item and is unable to get in touch with the seller. The scammer’s ultimate goal is to steal the victim’s advance payment or delivery fee.

Here is how advance delivery fee scams in Uganda typically work:

The victim sees an item for sale online, either on a website or through a social media platform, and decides to purchase it.
The victim contacts the seller and agrees on a price for the item.
The victim is then asked to pay a fee in advance for the delivery of the item. This fee may be called a “shipping fee” or an “advance delivery fee.”
The victim pays the fee, often through mobile money, wire transfer, or western union.
The victim does not receive the purchased item and is unable to get in touch with the seller.

How to avoid advance delivery fee scams in Uganda

To avoid falling victim to advance delivery fee scams in Uganda, it’s essential to be cautious when making online purchases. Be wary of sellers who require an advance payment, particularly for shipping or delivery fees.

Always verify the seller’s authenticity by looking for a physical address, contact number, and other legitimate information, and research the website or social media account where you are buying from. Be skeptical of unsolicited offers, and only make payment once you are sure the seller is trustworthy.

When making a payment, do it through secure, traceable methods and keep records of all the transactions.

It’s also important to be aware of red flags, such as a fake or unprofessional website, and be critical of the information on the website or social media page.

Always keep your personal and financial information secure, and if in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek help from the relevant authorities or online platforms.

Also read; How to avoid buying fake products online in Uganda

8. Join Illuminati scams

These scams involve scammers claiming to be members or agents of the Illuminati cult and promising victims wealth and success if they join. The Illuminati is a secret society that is alleged to have influential members, including politicians and celebrities, who are said to possess special knowledge and abilities.

To carry out the scam, the scammer typically reaches out to potential victims through social media or a website. They will claim to be able to offer membership in the Illuminati cult and promise that the victim will become wealthy and successful if they join. The scammer will often assure the victim that no blood sacrifice is required and that the victim will receive a large sum of money within a few days of joining.

To join, the victim is typically asked to fill out an online form and pay a fee. The scammer may also ask the victim to bring money in person so that it can be doubled or tripled through the use of “magical powers” by Lord Lucifer.

However, once the victim has paid the fee or handed over the money, the scammer will either block the victim’s contact number or disappear without delivering on the promised riches.

Here is how Join Illuminati scams in Uganda typically work:

A scammer reaches out to a potential victim through social media or a website, claiming to be able to offer membership in the Illuminati.
The scammer then promises wealth and success to the victim if they join.
The scammer asks the victim to pay a fee and provide personal information to complete the joining process.
Once the victim has paid the fee or provided the information, the scammer either disappears or blocks the victim’s contact number without delivering on the promised benefits.

How to avoid Join Illuminati scams in Uganda

Avoiding Join Illuminati scams in Uganda requires critical thinking and skepticism. Firstly, it’s important to note that the Illuminati is not a real organization, and any membership offer is likely a scam.

Be suspicious of unsolicited messages or emails that promise wealth, success, or power in exchange for payment or personal information.

Never send money or personal information to someone you don’t know, even if they promise large sums of money or a chance to be part of some powerful group.

Always verify the authenticity of the person or organization you are dealing with. If you suspect being targeted by such scams, you should not hesitate to report them to the authorities or online platforms where the scammer reached out to you.

Remember, genuine opportunities to improve your life don’t come in unsolicited offers, and no secret society will make you wealthy or successful without hard work and effort.

9. Health scams

Health scams are fraudulent schemes in which scammers sell fake or unproven health products or treatments to unsuspecting victims. These scams can take various forms, such as selling fake medications, fake supplements, or cures for serious diseases like HIV or cancer. The scammers may claim that their products are backed by scientific research or that they have special powers to cure a wide range of ailments.

They may also use high-pressure sales tactics to persuade people to buy their products, such as claiming that the product is only available for a limited time or that it is in high demand.

Some health scams are relatively straightforward, such as selling a bottle of pills that are claimed to cure a particular condition but which have no active ingredients.

Other health scams can be more sophisticated, such as selling expensive treatments or procedures claimed to be cutting-edge or revolutionary but unproven or ineffective.

Victims of health scams usually pay a lot of money for products or treatments that do not work as advertised or may even be harmful to their health.

It’s essential to be cautious of any offers for health products or treatments that seem too good to be true and to thoroughly research any claims made by the seller before making a purchase.

Here is how health scams in Uganda typically work:

Scammers sell fake or unproven health products or treatments, such as pills, supplements, or fake cures for serious chronic diseases like HIV or cancer.
They claim that the products are backed by scientific research or have special powers to cure a wide range of ailments.
Scammers use high-pressure sales tactics, such as claiming that the product is only available for a limited time or is in high demand.
They charge a lot of money for the products or treatments, even though they may be fake or ineffective.

How to avoid health scams in Uganda

To avoid falling for health scams in Uganda, it is essential to be vigilant and critically evaluate any offers for health products or treatments, especially when the claims seem too good to be true or exaggerated.

One way to protect oneself is to thoroughly research any products or treatments that are being offered, including reading reviews and consulting with a healthcare professional. Additionally, it is crucial to be aware of high-pressure sales tactics, such as claims that a product is only available for a limited time or is in high demand. Be skeptical of products or treatments that claim to be a cure-all for a wide range of ailments or that make unrealistic promises of fast results.

It’s also good to always be cautious about your health and reach out to the authorities or healthcare professionals when in doubt. Keep in mind that prevention is always better than cure.

Also read; How to avoid buying fake products online in Uganda

10. Chain referral data mining Scams

Chain referral data mining scams are a type of social engineering attack that uses social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, etc., to spread links that promise rewards such as free internet data, scholarships, jobs, or gifts such as smartphones or cars. The scammers create fake websites or landing pages that appear legitimate and use these to entice people to click on the links and provide personal information.

These scams work by tricking people into clicking on a link and entering their personal information, such as their name, email address, and phone number. They will often ask victims to share the link with their WhatsApp contacts or Facebook groups in order to qualify for the promised reward, thus expanding the reach of the scam.

The ultimate aim of these scammers is to collect as much personal data as possible. They will then use this information for various malicious activities, such as spamming, phishing, identity theft, and other cybercrimes. They can also sell this data to other parties and use it for things like targeted advertising or use it to create lookalike profiles to scam more people.

The most significant risk of chain referral data mining scams is that they can lead to identity theft or financial losses, as some trick people into giving credit card information or banking details. They also put the victim’s personal information at risk of being used for illegal activities.

Here is how chain referral data mining scams in Uganda typically work:

The scammers create fake websites or landing pages that appear to be legitimate. These sites offer rewards such as free internet data, scholarships, jobs, or gifts such as smartphones or cars.
The scammers will then share links to these fake websites through social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.
Victims are enticed to click on the links with the promise of a reward.
When victims click on the links, they are taken to the fake website, where they are asked to provide personal information such as their name, email address, and phone number.
The victims are then asked to share the link with a given number of their contacts in order to qualify for the promised reward.
Scammers use the personal data collected to engage in various malicious activities, such as spamming, phishing, identity theft, targeted advertising, or creating lookalike profiles to scam more people.
The personal information may also be sold to other parties for illegal activities.

How to avoid Chain referral data Mining Scams in Uganda.

To avoid falling victim to chain referral data mining scams in Uganda, it is essential to exercise caution when clicking on links or providing personal information in response to unsolicited messages on social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.

Look out for red flags like promises of free internet data, scholarships, jobs, or gifts such as smartphones or cars, especially if the offer seems too good to be true.

Be wary of links that ask you to share the link with your contacts in order to qualify for a reward, and always verify the authenticity of a website before providing any personal information by checking the website URL, checking if it has any certifications, and do not hesitate to contact the supposed company to inquire if they are running a promotion.

And most importantly, be skeptical of unsolicited offers and never give out your personal or financial information in response to an unsolicited message.

11. Task-based scams

Task-based scams, also known as earnings scams, are fraudulent schemes in which scammers create fake websites or apps that promise users the ability to earn money by completing simple tasks such as playing games, watching videos, visiting links, writing reviews, or answering surveys.

These scammers use various tactics to entice users to participate in their schemes, such as showing fake earnings or testimonials from satisfied users. They might also promise payments via PayPal or other online platforms, but in the end, the money can’t be withdrawn. Usually, these scammers never actually pay users for their time and effort.

The scammers’ ultimate aim is to generate revenue through advertising or collecting users’ personal information. They might collect personal data by asking personal questions, email addresses, and mobile numbers. They might even use this information for malicious activities such as spamming, phishing, identity theft, and other cybercrimes. They can also sell this data to other parties and use it for things like targeted advertising or use it to create lookalike profiles to scam more people.

Participating in these types of scams can put users at risk in several ways. They might waste a lot of time completing the tasks without getting any real money in return. The task could be just a way for scammers to collect personal data.

In addition, some of the links or apps that the users are prompted to visit or download may be malicious and could infect the users’ devices with malware or other harmful software. It’s vital for people to be cautious and to thoroughly research any offers to earn money online before participating.

Here is how task-based scams in Uganda typically work:

Scammers create fake websites or apps that promise users the ability to earn money by completing simple tasks.
scammers use various tactics to entice users to participate in their schemes, such as showing fake earnings or testimonials from satisfied users.
Users are prompted to complete tasks such as playing games, watching videos, visiting links, writing reviews, or answering surveys.
Users complete the tasks but don’t get paid; the scammers either disappear or block the victim’s account without paying.
In the background, scammers collect personal data by asking personal questions, email addresses, and mobile numbers.
This personal data can be used for malicious activities such as spamming, phishing, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.
Scammers might also sell this data to other parties and use it for things like targeted advertising or use it to create lookalike profiles to scam more people
Some of the links or apps that the users are prompted to visit or download may be malicious and could infect the users’ devices with malware or other harmful software.

How to avoid task-based scams in Uganda

To avoid falling victim to task-based scams in Uganda, it is essential to be wary of any website or app that promises to pay you for completing simple tasks. Be suspicious of any offers that seem too good to be true, and only provide personal information to websites or apps you are sure of.

It is also crucial to research the company or individual behind the website or app before participating in their tasks or surveys. One effective way to do this is by reading reviews or checking for any red flags, such as spelling or grammatical errors on the website.

It’s always important to be cautious of unsolicited offers or out-of-the-ordinary deals, especially ones that require you to give out personal information or pay for something upfront.

12. Witchdoctor Scams

Witch doctor scams, also known as spiritual or traditional healer scams, involve scammers who pose as traditional healers or witch doctors online, promising to use their supposed supernatural powers to help people with various problems, such as giving them wealth, bringing back lost lovers, casting spells, catching thieves, stabilizing families, winning court cases, and boosting business sales.

These scammers typically reach out to potential victims through social media or online classifieds websites, claiming to have special powers from traditional gods and spirits that enable them to perform these services. They often promise to perform these services remotely without needing to meet the victim in person. They then charge a fee, typically requesting payment in advance, usually through mobile money.

The scammers’ main aim is to collect money from the victims by promising to perform these services. They often provide some form of initial ”proof” of their supposed powers, such as large bundles of fake money, to gain the victims’ trust and convince them to pay more. They continue to ask for more money until the victim realizes they are being scammed. By then, they would have stolen a lot of money from the victim.

It’s harmful, as most of these individuals who fall for this scam are people in desperate situations, like looking for love, trying to regain their wealth, settling court cases, or boosting their business. They offer false hope, and instead of solving the victim’s problems, it leaves them in worse conditions.

It’s essential for people to be aware of these scams and to educate themselves about the various types of scams that are currently being perpetrated in order to protect themselves from falling victim. People should be cautious of anyone promising quick and easy solutions to their problems, especially if they require payment in advance. If someone is unsure about an offer’s legitimacy, they should research and ask for more information and referrals before making a payment.

How witchdoctor scams in Uganda typically work:

The scammers pose as traditional healers or witch doctors online, using social media or online classifieds websites to reach out to potential victims.
They claim to have special powers from traditional gods and spirits that enable them to perform various services, such as giving wealth, bringing back lost lovers, casting spells, catching thieves, stabilizing families, winning court cases, and boosting business sales.
They contact potential victims and offer to perform these services remotely without needing to meet the victim in person.
They charge a fee for their services, typically requesting payment in advance, often through mobile money transfer.
They may provide some form of initial ”proof” of their supposed powers, such as large bundles of fake money, to gain the victims’ trust and convince them to pay more.
They continue to ask for more money and make more promises as long as the victim is willing to pay.
They may also block or disappear when the victim starts to suspect or question their legitimacy.
Once the victim realizes they have been scammed, the scammers have already stolen a lot of money.

How to avoid falling for the witchdoctor scam work in Uganda

To avoid falling victim to witch doctor scams in Uganda, it is crucial to be cautious of anyone promising quick and easy solutions to your problems, especially if they require payment in advance.

Be wary of unsolicited offers and be suspicious of anyone requesting payment before providing services. Instead, research the person or company you’re considering doing business with, ask for referrals or look for reviews online.

It’s also advisable to be careful of any communication and transactions made through social media or online classified websites, as they are often used as platforms by scammers.

It’s also wise to question the amount of money they are charging and the results they are promising; if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Remember, genuine opportunities to improve your life don’t come in unsolicited offers, and no witchdoctor will make you wealthy or successful without hard work and effort.

List of other common scams in Uganda and how to avoid them

1. Telecom scams

Telecom scams involve scammers posing as customer representatives from telecom companies like MTN Uganda and Airtel Uganda. They call members of the public, claiming that their SIM cards are not fully registered and will be de-registered unless they update them.

The scammer then takes the victim through a supposed process of updating their SIM card registration status by ordering the victim to enter certain USSD codes on their phone. If the person follows the scammer’s instructions by dialing the USSD codes and entering their mobile money PIN, the scammer can gain access to the victim’s mobile money balance and withdraw all their money.

The scammer can also fraudulently take over ownership of the victim’s SIM card through a technique known as SIM card swapping. Once the scammer takes ownership of the victim’s SIM card, they can use it to reset the victim’s online banking login details and steal their money.

Be cautious of unsolicited calls from individuals asking you to dial any codes on your phone and enter your PIN. Additionally, never give out your PIN or personal information to anyone. Banks or mobile money companies will never ask for your PIN or other personal information over the phone.

2. Real Estate Scams

Real estate scams in Uganda typically involve fraudsters who trick people into paying for properties that do not exist or are not for sale or misrepresenting the terms of a real estate transaction to take advantage of unsuspecting buyers or sellers.

One of the most common methods used by real estate scammers in Uganda is to list properties for sale at below-market prices on social media and various classifieds websites to attract many buyers. Once a buyer is interested, they will request that the buyer pay inspection fees, usually around UGX 100,000. They will then take the money and disappear, whether the property is actually for sale or not. Their ultimate goal is to steal money from buyers disguised as inspection fees.

Another method is using forged documents, in which scammers represent themselves as the legal owners of land or property, but in reality, they are not. They then sell the land to unsuspecting buyers, and when the buyer goes to transfer their land title at the Ministry of Lands office, for example, they discover they have been scammed with a fake land title.

It’s also common for scammers to impersonate legitimate real estate agents or property developers and use their reputation to convince potential buyers to part with their money.

To avoid falling victim to real estate scams in Uganda, conducting thorough research on any property before making a purchase is essential. This can include visiting the property in person, checking the property’s title and ownership records, and verifying that the seller or agent is legitimate. It is also wise to use the services of a reputable lawyer to handle any legal matters related to the property.

3. Prize/Lottery Scam

Prize/Lottery scams are a type of scam in which fraudsters contact individuals through phone calls or text messages, claiming they have won a prize in a competition or lottery. These prizes can range from cash and cars to even trips abroad. The competition may be advertised on TV or radio, but the victim may not have actually participated in it.

The scammer will then ask the victim to pay a fee, typically via mobile money, in order to process the prize or cover delivery costs. They may also ask the victim to provide personal information, such as their bank account number, in order to receive the prize. However, the prize and competition are both fake, and the scammers will take the money or personal information and disappear.

To avoid falling victim to this scam, it’s important to remember that legitimate contests and lotteries will never require a fee to claim a prize. If someone contacts you and claims that you have won a prize but then asks for personal information or money for any reason, it is likely a scam. In such cases, it is best to block the individual or number.

4. Rental scams

Rental scams in Uganda typically involve fraudsters who advertise fake rental properties online to trick people into paying a deposit or rent for a property that is not actually available for rent.

These scammers may lure victims into viewing a property different from the one advertised online, which may or may not be available for rent. The scammer’s ultimate goal is not to provide a rental property but to steal money from victims through inspection fees. This can be a fee that ranges between UGX 50,000-100,000.

To avoid falling victim to rental scams in Uganda, it is essential to understand that legitimate property brokers do not ask for any money in advance. Only pay for any costs after they have shown you the property and you have decided that you like it.

Never pay rental fees or deposit in advance before viewing the property, and do adequate research to confirm that the person you are giving money to is the rightful owner of the property or an authorized caretaker. This includes checking the documents and visiting the property in person. Also, using a reputable lawyer or realtor to handle any legal matters related to renting a property is advised.

5. Work from abroad scams

Work from abroad scams, also known as “jobs abroad” or “overseas employment” scams, are fraudulent schemes targeting Ugandan individuals looking for employment outside the country, primarily in Europe or the United Arab Emirates.

These scams are often perpetrated by individuals or fake labor recruitment companies that advertise jobs in these foreign countries with attractive salaries and minimal qualifications required.

The scammers claim that the only requirement for these jobs is a passport, and they ask victims to pay a fee of between UGX 2M to 5M for processing travel documents and visas. Once the payment is made, the scammers disappear, and the victim is left without a job or a refund.

In some cases, scammers may also claim that no fee is required and that they would fund the victim for a visa and air ticket, which the victim would pay back after they have got the job. But instead, ask the victim to process certain travel requirements through businesses or individuals in cahoot with the scammer.

For example, a scammer may ask the victim to take their passport photos at a specific studio or to undergo a medical examination at a particular clinic, knowing that these services are priced at a premium. The scammer aims to earn a commission or profit from these services. They will ask multiple victims to use the same service, thereby generating a lot of money and victims not being taken abroad or getting promised jobs abroad.

Suppose a scammer creates an advertisement for a work-from-abroad job, which draws the attention of 1000 individuals. The scammer then directs these individuals to undergo a medical examination at a specific clinic, which costs UGX 400,000 per person. If all 1000 individuals undergo this examination, the total cost of the medical check-ups would be UGX 400,000,000. That would be 400M stolen from 1000 people, and the applicants will not be taken abroad for work.

Unfortunately, even registered companies are involved in these scams, but despite government efforts to stop this fraud, no significant action has been taken against them.

To avoid work-from-abroad job scams in Uganda, you should be cautious of any job opportunities that appear too good to be true, especially if the job requires a significant investment of money or asks you to pay for services. It is also recommended to research the company or the recruiter and check their credentials before sending them any money.

6. Loan scams

Loan scams are fraudulent schemes where scammers pose as legitimate money lending companies to trick victims into paying a fee for a loan that will never be received.

The scammers offer large sums of money with low or no interest and claim that the loan will be sent directly to the victim’s mobile money account, with no need for face-to-face meetings.

However, the scammer will require the victim to pay an application fee before processing the loan. This fee is usually requested to be paid via mobile money and can range from UGX 20,000 to UGX 1,000,000, depending on the loan size.

Once the victim pays the fee, the scammer will often block them and disappear, leaving the victim without a loan or any way of getting their money back.

To avoid loan scams in Uganda, it is essential to exercise caution when considering a loan offer, particularly from an online lender. Researching the company, looking for reviews and complaints or warning signs, or checking if it is properly licensed is critical. Additionally, do not pay any upfront fees before receiving a loan. Keep in mind that legitimate lending companies do not ask for an application fee and that it is illegal for any lender to ask for money before disbursing a loan. Also, be suspicious of money lenders who pressure you to act quickly or claim that you have been pre-approved for a loan.

7. Charity Scams

Charity Scams refer to fraudulent schemes where scammers pose as legitimate charitable foundations or organizations to trick victims into making donations that will not go towards the intended purpose.

These scammers may create fake charity organizations or use existing ones to defraud generous people. The donations made to these scams never reach the intended recipients or are not used for the purpose for which they were intended. Instead, the funds are often diverted for the personal interests or projects of the scammer.

In addition, scammers may also use social media to create fake situations in which they claim to need financial assistance, such as needing medical treatment abroad or having no food or shelter. While some of these requests for help may be genuine, many are scams created by individuals looking to take advantage of others’ generosity.

Some scammers also run fake pet foundations, claiming to take care of animals such as dogs and cats, using fake photos and videos to attract donors.

These scammers specifically target individuals from Europe and the USA who are known for their generosity and willingness to support charitable causes. This is because scammers perceive individuals from these countries more likely to donate money to a cause.

To avoid charity scams in Uganda, it’s essential to exercise caution when considering a donation. Researching the charity organization, looking for reviews and complaints, or checking if the organization is appropriately licensed and registered is essential. Additionally, it is crucial to be skeptical of charities that are not well-known or have no track record, or that pressure you to act quickly. It’s also important to be suspicious of charities that keep asking for money even after donating or that do not provide detailed information about how your donation will be used.

8. Scholarships scams

Scholarship scams refer to fraudulent schemes in which scammers pose as legitimate organizations or individuals offering scholarships or financial aid to students to trick victims into paying a fee. These scammers often advertise scholarships through various means, including mainstream media.

In Uganda, scholarship scams may work in a number of ways. For example, a scammer may advertise a scholarship promising full bursaries or half bursaries to those that want to pursue university education. The scammer will, however, request a fee to be paid for processing the scholarship application. The fee may be requested in cash or via mobile money, which can be significant in some cases. All the scammer wants is to steal the scholarship processing fee or application fee.

To avoid scholarship scams in Uganda, it’s important to be cautious of any unsolicited offers of scholarships or financial aid, especially those that require a fee to be paid upfront. Research the organization or individual offering the scholarship, look for reviews and complaints or check if the organization is properly licensed. It’s also important to be wary of scholarships that sound too good to be true. It’s also important to be skeptical of scholarships that guarantee awards or ask for money in exchange for assistance with a scholarship application.

9. Betting Scams

Betting scams are fraudulent schemes in which scammers take advantage of individuals looking to make money through soccer predictions. These scammers may claim to have insider knowledge or a special algorithm that allows them to accurately predict the outcome of upcoming soccer matches and then sell odds or betting tips to their victims. However, the predictions or odds provided by these scammers are often incorrect, resulting in the victim losing money.

Additionally, these scammers may block the victim and disappear with the money, despite promises of refunds if the predictions are incorrect. In reality, most of them never refund. It should be noted that predicting the outcome of soccer matches is based mainly on luck, and no one can predict soccer results with 100% accuracy. Therefore, it is not advisable to pay anyone for predictions.

To avoid betting scams in Uganda, it is essential to be wary of any individual or organization that claims to have insider knowledge or a special technique that guarantees accurate soccer predictions. One should not trust anyone claiming to know the results of matches before they happen. Also, it’s good to be cautious of betting tips or odds being sold for a fee, particularly if the seller is not a reputable organization or individual. Additionally, it’s essential to always do your own research and use your own judgement when placing bets and not depend on someone else’s predictions. Lastly, it’s always good to stick to well-established and reputable betting platforms to ensure the safety of your money.

General tips to avoid online scams in Uganda

Online scams in Uganda can be devastating and severely impact an individual’s financial well-being. In extreme cases, some people have even committed suicide due to the financial losses they have incurred as a result of falling victim to a scam. It is important to remember that making money online requires hard work and diligence, and there is no such thing as a get-rich-quick scheme. To protect yourself from online scams in Uganda, here are some tips to consider:

Be careful when clicking on links, as they may lead to phishing websites or install malware on your computer.
Use strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
Don’t give out personal information, such as your full name, address, or financial details, to strangers online.
Don’t send money or provide financial information to anyone you don’t know or trust.
Be cautious of online dating scams and thoroughly research anyone you meet online before agreeing to meet in person.
Use reputable antivirus software to protect your computer from malware.
Check the security of websites before entering personal information or making a purchase. Look for the “https” in the URL and a padlock icon.
Be careful when using public Wi-Fi, as it may be unsecured and allow hackers to access your personal information.
Research the reputation of any company or individual before doing business with them.
Be cautious of investment opportunities that promise high returns with low risk.
Don’t feel pressured to make a decision quickly. Take the time to research and consider your options before committing to anything.
If you suspect you’ve been the victim of a scam, report it to the authorities and seek help from a trusted source.
Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
Be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages that ask for personal information or money.
Use common sense and trust your instincts. If something feels off or suspicious, it’s best to avoid it.

What to do after you have been scammed?

If you have been the victim of a scam, taking action as soon as possible is crucial to minimize the potential damage. Here are the steps you can take after you have been scammed:

Contact the company you purchased from or gave the money to request a refund or report the scam
Report the incident to the police and provide relevant documentation about the scam
File a complaint with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). UCC is mandated to investigate such scams and can help you recover your money.
If you paid the scammer via mobile money or bank, dispute the charge with your Mobile Money service provider or bank
If you were scammed on a marketplace site, contact the website or app where you made the purchase. They could help you recover your money
File a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The IC3 partners with the FBI and Interpol to fight internet-based crimes and can help you recover your money.
Consult a lawyer for advice on options for recovering your funds.
Seek compensation through small claims court. In Uganda, Small Claims Procedure can be accessed at the Chief Magistrates’ courts.
Spread the word about the scam to prevent others from falling victim. Expose the scammer on social media.

Also read; Online Shopping Scams: How to Get Your Money Back

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rise of online scams in Uganda has become a major concern, with many individuals falling victim to fraudulent schemes on a daily basis. This article “Top 12 Online Scams in Uganda and How to Avoid Them” has provided an in-depth examination of 12 of the most common and prevalent online scams currently being perpetrated in Uganda in 2024, from fake online investment scams to romance scams and advance fee fraud.

People must take steps to educate themselves about these scams and be vigilant in protecting themselves from falling victim. Understanding how these scams work, and being aware of the signs of a scam can help protect yourself and your loved ones.

It is important to remember to report any suspicious activity to the authorities. By working together, we can fight to combat the problem of online scams and make the internet a safer place for everyone.