By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
A local Beitbridge resident, who chose to remain anonymous, has revealed to Ziyah News Network that she fell victim to a scam on Wednesday, February 4, after being deceived by a fraudster posing as a church member who asked her to send EcoCash to a different number.
The scammer was using the WhatsApp number of her church member.
The fraudster claimed it was an emergency and requested financial help, instructing her to send the money to this number 0787957803 under the EcoCash name Rabelani Kaela.
According to the victim, the scammer requested that she send US$200 via EcoCash.
She mistakenly believed the request was for 200 South African Rand and sent the equivalent of about US$12.
The scammer later continued messaging, asking whether she would send the remaining balance.
The situation was later exposed in the church group, where members announced that the real account owner’s WhatsApp had been hacked.
The matter was reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), who have since launched investigations into the incident.
Many scams begin with hacked WhatsApp accounts.
Fraudsters often gain access by tricking users into sharing their WhatsApp verification code or clicking malicious links.
Once inside the account, scammers impersonate the victim and request money from contacts, family members, church groups, or friends.
The public has since been urged to enable two-step verification on WhatsApp, never share verification codes, and immediately alert contacts if their account is compromised.
This case comes amid growing concerns over rising mobile money fraud.
EcoCash has already issued warnings to customers about increasing scam attempts.
“EcoCash is aware of scammers targeting unsuspecting customers through fake promotions, cheap deals, quick loans and ‘too-good-to-be-true’ online offers that require payment using EcoCash. In most cases, these scammers trick customers into sharing their EcoCash PIN or One-Time Password (OTP). Once this information is disclosed, fraudsters gain unauthorised access to the customer’s EcoCash wallet and steal their funds,” read part of the Econet statement.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has since urged the public to verify payment requests before sending money and to report fraud immediately. Authorities warn that scammers often hack accounts or impersonate trusted contacts to deceive victims.
Steps to try recover money (EcoCash guidance)
Immediately report the fraud to EcoCash Customer Care (dial 151 or contact the nearest Econet Shop).
Provide full transaction details, phone numbers, and messages linked to the scam.
Report the matter to the police and obtain a case reference number.
Request a transaction trace and possible reversal (this depends on whether the funds have already been withdrawn).
Secure your wallet by changing your PIN and never sharing OTP codes.