By:
Robert Kwaku Annor
Orange Sierra Leone has
launched a new Scam Alert tool aimed at helping customers report suspected
fraud and protect themselves against scams targeting mobile and financial
services users.
The tool was unveiled at a
press launch attended by Orange Sierra Leone’s Chief Executive Officer, Aiche Toure,
directors, cybersecurity team, media partners and other stakeholders, who
highlighted the importance of strengthening consumer protection as digital and
mobile financial services continue to expand.
Through the new service,
customers can report suspected fraudulent activity and check potential scams by
dialing *505#. Customers can also report fraud through Orange’s online platform
or call 111 for assistance.
Orange Sierra Leone said the
initiative forms part of its broader commitment to protecting customers as the
use of digital financial services continues to grow.
The company’s Orange Money
platform enables customers to send and receive money, pay bills, shop online
and in stores, and access savings and credit services, increasing the
importance of effective measures to detect and prevent fraudulent activity.
The launch also brought
together stakeholders from the telecommunications and cybersecurity ecosystem
to strengthen public awareness and encourage customers to remain vigilant when
using digital and financial services.
Orange Sierra Leone urged
customers to exercise caution when receiving suspicious messages or requests
for personal and financial information and to verify information before taking
action.
The company said the Scam
Alert tool will complement its wider cybersecurity and customer protection
efforts as it works to stay ahead of evolving fraud techniques.
Orange Sierra Leone is
encouraging customers to adopt a simple approach when confronted with
suspicious activity: stop, verify and stay safe.
