Rwanda Reports 60% Drop in Digital Payment Fraud for 2025

Rwanda recorded a sharp drop in digital payment fraud cases in 2025, according to the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR).

Reported incidents fell by about 60 percent compared to 2024, the central bank said on Thursday, February 19, 2026, during a press conference of the Monetary Policy and Financial Stability Committees.

Fraud Cases Decline Significantly

BNR reported that digital payment fraud cases dropped from around 5,000 at the end of 2024 to about 3,000 in 2025. Mobile money services continue to account for the highest number of reported cases because of their widespread use.

“What we have observed is that fraud linked to digital payments reduced in 2025,” said Soraya Hakuziyaremye, Governor of the National Bank of Rwanda.

She said the decline is the result of coordinated efforts by the central bank, security agencies, and payment service providers.

Public Awareness and Supervision

BNR highlighted the role of public education in lowering fraud cases. Moise Bigirimana, Acting Executive Director for Financial Sector Development and Conduct, said campaigns such as Bime Amatwi helped users recognize fraud and protect themselves.

“These campaigns help users stay alert, especially as fraudsters continue to change their tactics,” he said.

The bank has also increased supervision of IT systems used by payment service providers to ensure digital payment platforms remain secure. The Fraud Prevention Forum, a multi-institution platform, helps identify risks early and take preventive action.

Refund Processes Still Challenging

Despite the reduction in fraud cases, mobile money refunds remain complicated. Hakuziyaremye explained that refunds cannot be fully automatic because this could encourage misuse.

“If refunds were automatic, people could buy goods and later claim the payment was a mistake,” she said.

Refunds currently require confirmation from the recipient. In some cases, investigations and legal action may be necessary when funds are not returned. BNR said it will continue protecting consumers while maintaining trust and security in Rwanda’s growing digital payment systems.