Malawi Implements Prison Scanners to Combat Widespread Mobile Fraud
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has announced the installation of scanning machines in the nation’s prisons to address the issue of mobile and digital fraud, which has become prevalent within correctional facilities.
MACRA is deploying state-of-the-art scanning equipment across all prisons to identify and prevent the smuggling of SIM cards and mobile phones that inmates use for fraudulent purposes.
According to MACRA Director General Daud Suleman, this initiative, which was initially tested at Zomba Prison, forms part of a larger strategy aimed at tackling mobile and digital fraud within these institutions.
Prison officials have shown their complete support for this technological advancement, with Public Relations Officer Steve Meke highlighting its significance for enhancing security within the facilities.
Clarence Gama, president of the ICT Association of Malawi, stated that these scanning systems are crucial in combating instances of mobile fraud.
This initiative aligns with MACRA’s upcoming biometric registration requirements for SIM cards, which are intended to improve oversight over the national mobile network.
K185 Million Lost Due to Mobile Money Fraud
Months ago, MACRA revealed that 27,767 individuals in Malawi had fallen victim to mobile money fraud.
Brave Kaira, MACRA’s Consumer Affairs Officer, informed reporters that between January and July 2024, fraudsters deceived consumers out of a total of 185 million Kwacha.
Kaira also pointed out that the actual number of victims may be significantly higher since many individuals do not report their experiences when they are defrauded. He noted that most cases of mobile money fraud are carried out by inmates at Zomba Maximum Prison.
