How to Reverse M-Pesa Sent to the Wrong Number in Kenya

In Kenya M-Pesa has made money transfers so easy and instant. But mistakes like sending money to the wrong number can happen and panic sets in. Good thing Safaricom has a process to reverse the transaction. Here’s a step by step guide to help you reverse M-Pesa transactions and tips to avoid such mistakes in future.

How to Reverse M-Pesa Sent to the Wrong Number

1. Act Fast

• Once you realize the mistake, act fast. The sooner you do, the higher the chances of getting your money back.

2. Forward the Confirmation Message to 456

• Safaricom has a dedicated number 456 for reporting wrong transactions.
• Open the SMS with the transaction details and forward it to 456 as it is. You don’t need to type a new message, just forward the confirmation message.

3. Contact Safaricom Customer Care

• Dial 100 for Safaricom customer care and explain the situation.
• Give them the transaction details, date, time and amount sent.
• If the recipient has not used the money, Safaricom will reverse the transaction.

4. Wait for Feedback

• Safaricom will contact the recipient of the money. If the money is still in their account, they will be asked to return it.
• You will get updates via SMS or a call from Safaricom.

5. File a Police Report (If Necessary)

• If the recipient refuses to return the money, Safaricom may ask you to report to the police.
• The police report will help in further action to get back the money.

What to Do If You Receive M-Pesa by Mistake

If someone sends you M-Pesa by mistake, you are required by law to return it. Keeping the money may lead to legal consequences.

1. Don’t Use the Money

• Don’t spend the money received. Safaricom can reverse the transaction without your consent if the mistake is reported early.

2. Contact Safaricom

• Dial 100 for Safaricom customer care and report the incident. Give them the transaction details to speed up the process.

3. Return the Money

• Safaricom may ask you to authorize the reversal or the sender may contact you to arrange a refund.

Tips to Avoid Sending Money to the Wrong Number

1. Check the Recipient’s Number Twice

• Before you press send, check the recipient’s number multiple times. A small mistake can cause big trouble.

2. Use M-Pesa Favorites

• Save frequently used numbers as favorites on your M-Pesa menu. This reduces errors when sending money.

3. Confirm the Name Before Sending

• M-Pesa displays the recipient’s name before you confirm a transaction. Take your time to ensure the name displayed is your intended recipient.

4. Don’t Send Money When Distracted

• Distractions increase the chances of errors. Be focused when doing financial transactions.

More M-Pesa Reversal Info

1. Reversal for Paybill and Till Number: If you send money to the wrong Paybill or Till number, contact the business immediately and give them the transaction details. Safaricom will assist but the business has the final say on refunds.
2. Timing matters alot: Reversal requests are more successful when reported within a short time frame after the transaction.
3. Be wary of scammers: Scammers may contact you pretending to have sent money mistakenly