KwikBet Linked to Alleged Safaricom Data Theft in Kenya

In Short

• A report alleges KwikBet grew using stolen personal data linked to Safaricom subscribers.
• The claim cites a DCI forensic report and names Solami Limited as the operator.
• If proven, the case could raise regulatory pressure on betting and data handling in Kenya.

What Happened

A report by Kenya Insights alleges that KwikBet, operated by Solami Limited, used stolen data from 29.9 million Safaricom subscribers to build its user base.

The report says the allegation is supported by a DCI forensic report. DCI is Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations, which handles criminal investigations and digital forensics.

The story frames the data as subscriber information that could be used for targeted marketing, identity matching, or bulk account creation. “Stolen data” here means personal information obtained without permission, then reused for business growth.

Why It Matters

Betting platforms rely on fast onboarding, which is the process of turning a visitor into a registered user. If onboarding is fuelled by unlawfully obtained telecom data, it creates legal risk and harms consumer trust.

It also puts a spotlight on how customer databases move across the supply chain, including agents, affiliates, and third-party marketers. Even where a company does not hack systems itself, using compromised datasets can still trigger enforcement and lawsuits.

For Kenya’s tech ecosystem, this is another reminder that data protection is now operational, not just a compliance checkbox. Expect more scrutiny on consent, data sourcing, record keeping, and vendor due diligence across gambling and adjacent digital services.