Avoiding Mobile Telephone Scam: Cameroon’s Telecom Company Guides Customers

Two weeks ago, a journalist working with one of the private radio stations in Yaounde, RTS, almost fell victim to the mobile telephone scam.

According to this journalist, a guy called his phone, said his name and pretended to be his cable distributor.
He then offered a repairs deal in their zone where everyone has contributed except him, adding that all those who will contribute will have free subscriptions for two months.

The journalist (Name Withheld) almost sent his own contribution to a given number because the caller actually identified him, but on a second thought, promised to call his neighbors. That is how he discovered the fishy game.

Just like this victim, many get dubbed on daily bases through illegal mobile telephone transactions.

News Upfront reached out to one of the influential mobile telephone company in Cameroon for a proper understanding of the situation; the General Manager, Regulatory and Corporate Affairs at MTN-Cameroon, Melvin Akam stated clearly that the security of customers’ accounts is assured at MTN but the safety of the accounts and their transactions depends on every customer.

“No one, not even the CEO of MTN is aware of secret code numbers of customers, and there is no withdrawal from any account without the secret number…” He said.

Melvin Akam was referring to cases where mobile accounts of customers are emptied without the knowledge of the owners.

“…On no occasion shall you give out your secret code to anyone through the phone…”, he continued advising customers.

As MTN places sensitisation and vigilance on the actions of scammers, Melvin Akam disclosed the following tips of playing safe to News Upfront;

– Customers should know that official/professional telephone numbers of all MTN Staff begin with 677 55-XXXX.

These are tips that customers actually need to know to stay safe while hoping that the operators do well to secure the accounts of their customers.