CBK Finally Approves Safaricom Move to Hide Phone Numbers in M-Pesa Transactions
Central Bank of Kenya(CBK) has granted approval to Safaricom to introduce a new privacy feature that will allow users to conceal their phone numbers in M-Pesa transactions, marking a significant shift in how personal data is shared on the widely used mobile money platform.
The move is expected to enhance user privacy by replacing visible phone numbers with alternative identifiers during transactions, reducing the exposure of sensitive personal information. This comes amid growing concerns over data protection and misuse of personal details, especially as mobile money services continue to dominate everyday financial activity across Kenya.
Safaricom indicated that the feature will be rolled out gradually, giving users the option to transact without revealing their phone numbers to recipients or payers.
The company noted that while the change prioritizes privacy, it will still maintain transparency and accountability within the system to prevent fraud and ensure traceability when necessary.
Industry analysts say the decision aligns with broader global trends toward strengthening digital privacy and data security.
With millions of Kenyans relying on M-Pesa for payments, savings, and business transactions, the update could reshape user confidence and encourage even greater adoption of cashless services.
However, the development has also raised questions among some users and businesses who depend on phone numbers for transaction verification and customer engagement.
Small traders, in particular, may need to adjust how they confirm payments or identify customers once the feature is fully implemented.
The regulator emphasized that appropriate safeguards have been put in place to balance privacy with security, ensuring that law enforcement and authorized entities can still access necessary information when required.
As implementation begins, stakeholders across the financial and telecommunications sectors will be watching closely to see how the change impacts user experience and transaction integrity.
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