⚠️ Unfortunately, scammers target people sending money home
But with the right knowledge and precautions, you can protect yourself and your money. Here's how to stay safe.
1. Signs of a Scam
🚨 Avoid anyone who does any of the following:
Asks you to send money to a stranger
Scammers pretend to be legitimate services or individuals in need. Never send money to someone you don't know personally.
Claims to be a relative but refuses to identify themselves
Real family members will answer specific questions about your relationship. Scammers can't provide these details.
Pressures you to send money urgently
Creating false urgency is a classic scam tactic. Legitimate emergencies allow time for verification.
Asks to use your bank card or account
Never share your banking details, PIN, or card with anyone. This is a major red flag for fraud.
Offers deals that seem too good to be true
"Send £100, get £500 in Sierra Leone" or similar promises are always scams. Real exchange rates don't work that way.
Contacts you through social media only
Legitimate companies have official websites, verified accounts, and multiple contact methods. Social media-only contacts are suspicious.
💡 If something feels wrong, trust your instincts. Take time to verify before sending money.
2. How to Protect Yourself
Use Regulated Platforms
Only send money through licensed, regulated financial services.
✅ SendHome uses:
- Secure, encrypted technology to protect your data
- FCA regulation (Financial Conduct Authority oversight)
- Two-factor authentication for account security
- Verified mobile money partners (Orange Money, Afrimoney)
Confirm the Phone Number
Always verify you're sending to the correct recipient.
Best practices:
- • Call your family member directly to confirm their mobile money number
- • Use a saved contact number, not one sent via text or social media
- • Double-check the number before finalizing the transfer
- • Ask your recipient to confirm they received the money
Avoid Sending to Unknown Third Parties
Only send money directly to your intended recipient.
🚨 Never send money if:
- • Someone asks you to send to a "friend" or "agent" instead
- • The recipient name doesn't match the person you're helping
- • You're asked to split the transfer across multiple accounts
- • Anyone offers to "help" by receiving money on behalf of your family
Enable Transaction Notifications
Get instant alerts for all account activity.
Benefits of notifications:
- • Immediate confirmation when money is sent
- • Alert if there's any unauthorized activity
- • Peace of mind knowing your recipient got the funds
- • Digital record of all transactions
3. Why Mobile Money Is Safer
📱 Mobile money wallets reduce fraud risk because:
Every wallet is linked to a verified phone number
Mobile money accounts require SIM registration with valid ID. This creates accountability and traceability.
Instant notifications for all transactions
Both sender and recipient get SMS confirmation immediately. Any unauthorized activity is detected quickly.
No physical cash involved
Digital transfers eliminate risks associated with carrying or handling cash, such as theft or loss.
PIN-protected wallets
Mobile money accounts require a PIN for all transactions, adding an extra layer of security.
Transaction history and records
Complete digital trail of all transfers makes it easy to track and verify payments.
🛡️ Mobile money + regulated platforms like SendHome = Maximum security for your transfers
Security Checklist
✅ Before every transfer, make sure you:
Send Securely with Confidence
Use SendHome — built for safety, transparency, and peace of mind.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Transfer Security
How can I tell if a money transfer request is a scam?
Red flags include: requests from strangers, pressure to send urgently, refusal to verify identity, requests for your banking details, deals that seem too good to be true, and contact only through social media. Always verify directly with your intended recipient before sending money.
Is mobile money safe for receiving remittances in Sierra Leone?
Yes, mobile money is very safe. Every wallet is linked to a verified phone number with ID registration, transactions are PIN-protected, instant SMS notifications alert both parties, and there's a complete digital record. Mobile money eliminates cash-handling risks and provides accountability.
How does SendHome protect my money and personal information?
SendHome uses secure encrypted technology, FCA regulation oversight, two-factor authentication, verified mobile money partners, and instant transaction notifications. All transfers are traceable and protected by UK financial regulations.
What should I do if I suspect fraud?
Stop the transaction immediately if you haven't sent money yet. If you've already sent funds, contact SendHome support right away. Report the incident to Action Fraud (UK) or your local police. Never share additional personal information with the suspected scammer.