Imagine reporting a blackout to Kenya Power only to receive a cryptocurrency pitch in return. That is the risk customers now face after hackers gained control of the utility’s customer care account on X, turning a trusted public-service channel into a platform for crypto-related posts.
Kenya Power has warned customers against interacting with its @KenyaPower_Care account after it was accessed without authorisation, with the utility saying its recovery efforts were ongoing. The account, which has more than 1.6 million followers, is normally used to report power outages, make inquiries and seek assistance.
The breach came to light after cryptocurrency-related posts began appearing on the account, including promotions linked to $HYPE Season 2 and an allocation checker. The posts have no connection to Kenya Power’s electricity services or customer support.
Kenya Power has told customers not to engage with any content posted on the affected account, respond to direct messages or follow instructions issued through it until further notice.
The utility has instead provided customers with alternative channels for accessing its services. These include its official Facebook, Instagram and TikTok accounts, the 977# USSD service and the myPower App.
Kenya Power has also previously cautioned customers to use official communication channels and said it would not request sensitive information such as PINs, bank details or mobile-money information when handling customer complaints.
