Introduction
Across Uganda, mobile phones and social media have opened doors to new opportunities. Farmers can check market prices, students can access online learning, and families can stay connected across districts. Yet, these same digital platforms have also created fertile ground for online scams. Rural communities and people with limited literacy are particularly vulnerable, often falling prey to fraudsters who exploit trust and lack of awareness. Protecting these groups requires not only warnings but also practical digital literacy and relatable examples that resonate with everyday life.
The Reality of Online Scams in Uganda
Scams in Uganda often arrive in the form of text messages or phone calls. A common trick involves fraudsters pretending to be mobile money agents. For instance, in Fort Portal, a woman received a message claiming she had mistakenly been sent 50,000 shillings and was asked to return it. Believing the sender, she quickly transferred the money back, only to realize later that no deposit had ever been made.
Uganda Police has repeatedly warned about such schemes. In a 2022 statement, Wilfred Kamusiime of the Uganda Police Force cautioned citizens: “Fraudsters are determined to make money at all costs. As you go about your online shopping, please stay vigilant and carry out sufficient due diligence by checking the authenticity of the site or product.”
Another widespread scam involves fake job offers. Young graduates in Kampala have reported receiving emails promising lucrative positions abroad, but only if they pay a “processing fee.” Many desperate job seekers have lost their savings chasing these false promises. Similarly, in rural districts like Kasese, people have been targeted with lottery scams, told they have won prizes such as motorcycles or cash, but must first pay a clearance fee.
The Uganda Police Cybercrime Unit has also highlighted the rise of WhatsApp scams. In February 2025, they warned that fraudsters were blocking accounts and tricking users into sending money for fake re-registration. Authorities urged the public to report suspicious activity immediately.
Why Vulnerable Communities Are Targeted
Rural populations often face barriers to digital literacy. Many are first-time smartphone users, unfamiliar with how to verify links or check the authenticity of messages. In villages where radio remains the main source of information, online warnings rarely reach people. Language barriers also play a role: scam messages are often written in English, leaving those who primarily speak Runyoro, Luganda, or other local languages confused and more likely to comply.
Economic struggles make communities more susceptible. A farmer in Hoima, for example, may be tempted by an online message promising instant loans with no collateral. Without understanding the risks, they may share personal details or send money, only to be left poorer and more vulnerable.
Building Digital Literacy in Rural Communities
Digital safety is not just about avoiding scams—it’s about empowering communities to use technology confidently. NGOs are stepping in to fill this gap. In Masindi district, Jovia Oyungi, Project Officer at Recreation for Development and Peace Uganda (RDP Uganda), explained: “While many young people are active on various media platforms, they often lack the knowledge necessary to use these platforms responsibly.”
Community workshops in local languages, radio programs broadcasting safety tips, and posters in trading centers are proving effective. Peer educators—especially youth—are teaching elders how to identify suspicious messages. These grassroots efforts ensure that even those with limited literacy can understand the risks and protect themselves.
Conclusion
Online scams are not just a digital nuisance; they are a real threat to livelihoods in Uganda. From Fort Portal to Kampala, fraudsters exploit trust, hope, and economic vulnerability. Yet, through education, community action, and practical digital literacy, these scams can be defeated.
As Uganda Police emphasizes, vigilance and due diligence are essential. And as NGOs like RDP Uganda remind us, digital literacy must be prioritized to empower communities. By strengthening awareness and resilience, Uganda can ensure that technology becomes a tool for empowerment rather than exploitation.
