NAIROBI, Kenya – Safaricom has cautioned subscribers against purchasing unofficial internet packages popularly known as Bundles Mwitu, warning that the offers could expose customers to financial losses, data theft and mobile account takeovers.
In a statement issued on Saturday, October 31, 2026, the telecommunications company clarified that the packages are not part of its official products, despite their growing popularity among subscribers seeking cheaper ways to access the internet.
The warning comes amid reports that some customers are turning to the unofficial offers to continue browsing without first clearing outstanding Okoa Jahazi advances.
Under Safaricom’s conventional purchasing arrangements, subscribers with unpaid advances may encounter restrictions when accessing certain services or purchasing resources through specific channels.
The alternative packages have therefore attracted attention among customers looking for ways to remain connected while avoiding the immediate repayment of outstanding balances.
Safaricom explains risks of Bundles Mwitu
Responding to concerns raised about the unofficial offers, Safaricom was categorical that it does not recognise Bundles Mwitu as an authorised product.
“‘Bundles Mwitu’ is not an official Safaricom product,” the company stated.
The telecommunications firm warned that customers purchasing the packages from unauthorised vendors could lose money or expose their mobile lines and personal information to security threats.
“Unauthorised bundles risk money loss, line compromise, data theft, and account takeover with no Safaricom protection,” the company cautioned.
The warning means subscribers who buy the packages may have limited recourse through Safaricom if a transaction goes wrong or their accounts are compromised.
Official channels for buying Safaricom data
Safaricom directed customers to use its authorised platforms when purchasing internet bundles.
The approved channels include:
- USSD codes: *544#, *555#, *444# and *200#.
- My OneApp.
- MySafaricom App.
- Safaricom’s official website.
The company said customers using these platforms could access legitimate services through channels backed by its customer protection systems.
What happens when you fail to repay Okoa Jahazi?
Safaricom’s Okoa Jahazi terms require subscribers to repay airtime advances within 120 hours, equivalent to five days, after receiving the credit.
Repayment is automatically deducted from subsequent airtime top-ups until the outstanding amount is recovered.
The company’s terms also allow recovery of unpaid balances from existing resources, including airtime, minutes and Bonga Points. Subscribers who fail to repay within the stipulated period may lose access to further Okoa Jahazi advances until the outstanding amount is cleared.
Safaricom also provides for payment reminders where an advance remains unpaid for more than a week.
The latest warning highlights the risks associated with seeking unofficial alternatives to the company’s products, particularly where customers are required to share personal or account information with third-party vendors.
While the promise of cheaper internet may appeal to subscribers struggling with data costs, Safaricom has urged Kenyans to prioritise authorised purchasing channels to protect their money, mobile lines and personal information.
