Question 1

What is the "Mobile Money Transfer Interception" scam in Abidjan?

Accepted Answer

Scammers near cyber cafés in Treichville and Adjamé pose as helpers assisting tourists with Orange Money or Wave mobile transfers. They memorize or photograph account details during the transaction, then perform unauthorized withdrawals. A common variant involves a "free transfer" that actually links your number to their account. Never allow anyone to handle your phone during a mobile money transaction. Use official branded Orange Money or Wave kiosks only, and shield your PIN from view. Confirm all transaction details on-screen before approving.

Question 2

What is the "Advance Fee Fraud (Online)" scam in Abidjan?

Accepted Answer

Abidjan has historically been a major origination point for advance fee fraud (419 scams) targeting foreigners online. Victims are contacted by email or social media with business proposals, inheritance offers, or romantic approaches that eventually request wire transfers or gift card purchases to release larger sums. Do not respond to unsolicited business proposals from unknown contacts in Côte d'Ivoire. Never wire money or send gift cards to someone you have not met in person and verified through official channels.

Question 3

What is the "SIM Card Resale and Data Theft Scam" scam in Abidjan?

Accepted Answer

Vendors near Abidjan's Adjamé market and around the Gare de Marcory sell pre-registered SIM cards that are already linked to another person's national ID, creating potential legal exposure for the buyer. Some vendors clone SIM data to intercept banking SMS verification codes sent to foreign numbers. Purchase SIM cards only from official MTN or Orange Côte d'Ivoire retail stores in Plateau or major malls such as Cap Sud. Bring your passport — legitimate registration requires your own ID documents.

Online Scams in Abidjan

Mobile Money Transfer Interception

Advance Fee Fraud (Online)

SIM Card Resale and Data Theft Scam

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