Scammers Are Using Your Business Name on WhatsApp: What to Do

A clear action plan for Tanzanian businesses whose customers are being targeted by fake WhatsApp accounts.

It usually starts with a confused customer: “I paid your agent on WhatsApp, where is my order?” Somewhere, a scammer has copied your logo, your product photos and your prices onto a WhatsApp account and is taking money from people who think they are dealing with you.

This is now common in Tanzania, and it hurts twice: customers lose money, and they often blame your brand. Here is what to do, in order.

Step 1: Collect the evidence

Before anything else, gather what you need to report the scam:

• The scammer’s phone number and WhatsApp profile name and photo.
• Screenshots of the chats from affected customers, including any payment requests.
• Mobile money transaction details, including the name registered to the receiving number.
• Any fake Facebook or Instagram pages or ads sending people to that number.

Step 2: Report the number

• Report to WhatsApp: open the chat with the scam number, tap the name, then Report. Ask affected customers to do the same, because many reports increase the chance of a ban.
• Report to TCRA on 15040: TCRA runs the free short code 15040 for reporting phone numbers linked to fraud. Send the scammer’s number by SMS to 15040. Numbers reported this way can be investigated and blocked.
• Report to the mobile money provider: customers who paid should contact their provider immediately with the transaction details. Acting fast gives the best chance of stopping the money.
• Report to the police if customers lost money, especially for larger amounts. Bring your evidence.

Step 3: Warn your customers quickly

Silence lets the scam spread. Post a clear warning on your Facebook page, Instagram and WhatsApp status the same day:

• State your only official WhatsApp numbers and payment details.
• Show a screenshot of the fake account, with the number visible, so people can recognise it.
• Explain how customers can check: “We never ask for payment to a personal number” or “Always confirm on our official line before paying.”
• Pin the warning to the top of your page.

Step 4: Make your real account easy to recognise

• Use WhatsApp Business with your full business profile: logo, address, website and opening hours.
• Turn on two-step verification in WhatsApp settings so nobody can take over your number.
• Link your WhatsApp number on your website, Google Business Profile and social media, so customers can confirm the real one.
• Consider verification. See our guide on getting your business page verified.
• Use one consistent payment method, such as a Lipa Namba registered in your business name, and tell customers that is the only way to pay you.

Step 5: Shut down the sources

Scam WhatsApp numbers are usually promoted through fake Facebook pages, Instagram accounts or ads using your brand. Find and report those too. Our guide on removing a fake page using your business name explains how. If scammers are running paid ads with your logo, report the ad itself as well.

Key takeaways

• Collect evidence first: numbers, screenshots and transaction details.
• Report the number to WhatsApp, to TCRA by SMS on 15040, to the mobile money provider and to the police.
• Warn customers the same day and pin a post listing your only official numbers.
• Protect your real account with WhatsApp Business, two-step verification and one official payment method.
• Find and report the fake pages and ads that send people to the scam number.

Frequently asked questions

Need help taking down fake accounts and protecting your brand? See our digital brand protection service or contact our team.

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