One of Sierra Leone’s leading mobile networks, Orange, has issued a notice debunking recent fraudulent online promotion messages.

The messages, with URL links, claim that the mobile company is running a promotion offering bonuses to customers in the country.

Orange said the messages are “misleading” and intended to “defraud” customers.

“Please be aware that these messages are attempts designed to defraud and potentially compromise your personal information,” the mobile company warned.

They affirmed that the messages were not from them and that customers should avoid them.

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Orange advised customers to only accept messages shared from their official social media pages on X, Facebook and Instagram among others.

They also advised customers to call their customer care using the short code, 111.

Online scams are currently increasing in Sierra Leone, with perpetrators using sophisticated phishing links designed to stealthily extract personal information from unsuspecting victims. Once obtained, these scammers often take control of victims’ social media accounts and bank profiles, exploiting them to deceive friends, family members, and acquaintances into financial or personal harm. In some instances, victims are subjected to blackmail or extortion, as scammers threaten to release sensitive information or damage their reputation unless demands are met.