Online classified firm OLX inks key pact to help curb fraud

PS Ministry of ICT Joseph Tiampati (right), OLX Country Manager Peter Ndiang'ui (centre) and COFEK vice Chairman John Juma at Nairobi Serena Hotel during launch of campaign to enhance the safety of consumers buying and selling through online platforms. (Photo: Beverlyne Musili/Standard)

Leading online classifieds site OLX has partnered with the ICT Authority of Kenya and Consumer Federation of Kenya (Cofek) to launch a campaign aimed at enhancing the safety of consumers buying and selling through online platforms. OLX Country Manager Peter Ndiang'ui said the campaign will create awareness across the population and equip the public with the necessary information to be cautious.

"As an online platform, we have not been exempted from cases of unscrupulous individuals. We have been trying to do our due diligence, and provide as much information as necessary to our clients regarding their safety," he said.  "Because we are not involved in the transactions between sellers and buyers, this campaign offers the perfect opportunity to reach a wider market."

He was speaking during the launch of the campaign dubbed 'Kaa Ridhoo' that aims to ensure the public is keen while transacting both online and offline. This comes at a time when the Government is tacking the cyber-crime challenge head-on. "We are aware of the challenges and are working to enhance the security of Kenya's cyber space," said Ministry of ICT Principal Secretary Joseph Tiampati.

"In June, we launched the National Cyber Security Framework, which comprises the strategy, digital certificates and a portal where Kenyans can report incidents of fraud. We are working with various stakeholders to realise these goals."

ICT Authority Marketing Director Eunice Kariuki, noted that cases of cybercrime have been on the rise in the country, adding that the State will co-ordinate with stakeholders in the ICT sector to establish, develop and maintain secure ICT infrastructure and system

"We not only want to reach those affected by fraud offline, as is the case with OLX, but online clients as well. Our mandate as the ICT Authority is to co-ordinate the ICT sector, establish, develop and maintain secure ICT infrastructure and systems, and to market Kenya as a local and international ICT hub. If Kenyans do not trust online platforms, then it is a setback for us," she noted.

She said the ICT Authority will soon start using digital certificates which will act as digital ID's for those contracting online. The system is being piloted at the Kenya Revenue Authority.

Cofek Vice-Chairperson John Juma reiterated the Federation's mandate to work towards a fair, just and safe marketplace for all Kenyan and regional consumers in all sectors of the economy. The OLX country manager said the company has taken steps to help cushion its clients and to encourage them to continue using the platform. "OLX has also partnered with KK Security Group to provide trained private investigators who will be sitting at the OLX offices," he said.

"Due to their close working relationship with the police, they will ensure timely solutions to any cases raised during the campaign period and even after. To further promote the success of this partnership, we are also in the process of instituting a toll free number, which our clients can call in case they sense any foul play from those who contact them."