The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has issued a stern warning to the public over a new scam targeting unsuspecting Kenyans on WhatsApp. The service revealed that fraudsters are impersonating senior officials, including the Chief Conservator of Forests (CFF), Alex Lemarkoko, in an elaborate online con meant to extort money from innocent citizens.
In a statement shared on its official social media pages on Monday, KFS cautioned Kenyans to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with individuals or groups claiming to represent the institution through informal channels. The service noted that several people had reported being contacted via WhatsApp by scammers using Lemarkoko’s image and name to solicit money or promise employment opportunities within the service.
“The Kenya Forest Service wishes to alert members of the public of a scam involving fraudsters impersonating the Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, and other senior officials. These individuals are using WhatsApp and other online platforms to extort money from unsuspecting members of the public,” the statement read in part.
According to the service, the fraudsters are circulating fake messages and job adverts, claiming that the recipients can secure positions or business deals within KFS in exchange for payment. Some victims have also reported receiving messages offering assistance in acquiring forest land or licenses to harvest forest produce—services that the agency emphasized can only be obtained through official government procedures.
KFS clarified that it does not conduct recruitment or issue permits via WhatsApp or any other social media platform. The agency reiterated that all official communication, tenders, and job vacancies are advertised through its website and verified government channels.
“Members of the public are advised that KFS does not solicit money for employment, training opportunities, or forest permits. Any communication purporting to come from our officers through unofficial channels should be treated as fraudulent and reported immediately,” the service added.
The agency also urged Kenyans who may have fallen victim to the scam to report the incidents to law enforcement authorities and share any relevant evidence that could aid in investigations.
Online fraud, particularly through messaging apps like WhatsApp, has become increasingly common in Kenya. Scammers often take advantage of social media’s reach and anonymity to impersonate public officials, businesses, and even government agencies. Cybersecurity experts have warned that the use of familiar faces and official-sounding language makes such scams more convincing to the public.
Speaking to local media, cybersecurity consultant Samuel Kimani noted that impersonation scams are among the most prevalent forms of digital fraud in Kenya. “Scammers rely on urgency and authority. When they use a name like the Chief Conservator of Forests, it gives their message legitimacy, and victims are less likely to question it,” Kimani explained.
He advised Kenyans to always verify the authenticity of messages by checking official websites, confirming contact details, and avoiding sharing personal or financial information online. “Government institutions will never ask for money over WhatsApp. If someone claims otherwise, that’s a red flag,” he added.
In recent years, several government agencies have issued similar warnings as fraudsters continue to exploit digital communication platforms. The Ministry of Interior, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) have all reported cases of impersonation and fake recruitment drives run through WhatsApp and Facebook.
The Kenya Forest Service has now joined that growing list, emphasizing that the safety of the public—both offline and online—remains a top priority.
As the agency works with authorities to track down the culprits, it is urging citizens to remain cautious and verify any information claiming to originate from KFS.
“We appeal to Kenyans to be alert and share this information widely. Let’s work together to protect each other from fraudsters who seek to tarnish the image of public institutions and exploit the trust of hardworking citizens,” the statement concluded.
For official updates and verified communication, KFS has directed members of the public to visit its website www.kenyaforestservice.org or its verified social media accounts.