Kenya is increasing efforts to fight SIM swap fraud and phone theft. Hayo has upgraded its National Mobile Registry platform
Kenyan authorities are stepping up the fight against SIM swap fraud and mobile phone theft following an expansion of the National Mobile Registry (NMR) platform by global digital firm Hayo.
The upgraded system allows real-time tracking of SIM cards and mobile devices, giving regulators and network operators stronger tools to stop fraud, protect public revenue, and improve confidence in digital services.
SIM swap fraud has become a serious concern in Kenya, where criminals take control of phone numbers to access bank accounts and online platforms.
Industry estimates show that about a quarter of mobile users in the country have been affected. The threat is also growing worldwide, with reports showing a sharp rise in similar crimes in markets such as the United Kingdom.
Hayo’s enhanced platform can detect unusual SIM changes or number transfers almost instantly. This allows authorities to block suspicious activity before financial losses occur.
The system also helps remove stolen, fake, or illegally imported phones from mobile networks, addressing long-standing problems linked to unregulated devices.
Hayo Chief Executive Officer Feraz Ahmed said the new upgrades are meant to secure mobile networks while protecting both users and government income.
He noted that stronger SIM and device tracking help reduce fraud, improve trust in digital systems, and support safer mobile services.
For government agencies, the expanded NMR platform offers a single automated system to track compliance and reduce losses caused by illegal devices.
By linking with global GSMA data and national blacklists, regulators gain clear, real-time visibility of mobile activity across different networks.
Hayo’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, Sergio Rodrigues, said the platform helps expose weak points in mobile systems that criminals often exploit.
According to him, the technology supports efforts to protect users, limit fraud, and prevent revenue losses linked to counterfeit phones.
Kenya adopted the NMR framework in June 2025 as part of efforts to strengthen device control and improve compliance in the telecom sector.
The latest upgrade comes at a time when many countries are under pressure to secure digital payments and reduce telecom-related crime.
With SIM swap scams on the rise and illegal devices still circulating, the expanded Hayo platform is expected to play a key role in securing Kenya’s mobile economy.
Authorities believe the system will help protect millions of users while supporting safer, more reliable digital services across the country.
