By Diana.N.Kintu
The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has cautioned Ugandans to be vigilant following a surge in online scams and individuals posing as NIRA agents offering quick National ID services. The authority warns that several fraudulent websites and intermediaries are deceiving the public by promising “express” ID processing at a fee.
According to NIRA, one of the websites identified as fraudulent is ugfinder.com, which lists contact details such as WhatsApp +256 759 933 091 and email [email protected]. NIRA clarified that this site is not affiliated with the Authority in any way. The Authority is working with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to block such websites. However, some of them may still be accessible through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), so the public is advised to rely only on official NIRA communication channels.
The Registrar of NIRA, Ms. Claire Olama, explained that although a fee of Shs 300,000 for express ID services was officially gazetted, the service has not yet started. She warned that any person or website requesting money for express processing is running a scam. Ms. Olama stressed that all genuine payments for NIRA services are made strictly through the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) system, and the Authority does not receive cash or mobile money payments sent to personal numbers.
NIRA further advised Ugandans to apply for or renew their National IDs early to avoid falling victim to fraudsters who take advantage of last-minute applicants. The Authority also reminded the public that offering or soliciting a bribe in exchange for ID services is illegal and punishable by law. Protecting personal data, NIRA emphasised, is not only about preventing financial loss but also about avoiding identity theft and other related crimes.
To help citizens access reliable information, NIRA shared its official and verified communication channels, including its website at www.nira.go.ug and its social media platforms on Facebook (National Identification and Registration Authority), X formerly Twitter (@NIRA_Ug), TikTok (@nira_ug), and YouTube (@NIRA_Ug). The Authority’s only official WhatsApp number is +256 766 501 071.
NIRA also extended appreciation to all Ugandans participating in the ongoing mass enrolment and National ID card collection exercises. The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to delivering transparent and secure identification services across the country. It noted that operations are continuing at parish level and encouraged parents to use the ongoing school holidays to register their children for National IDs.
In its closing message, NIRA urged the public to cross-check any information regarding ID services through its official sources and to report any suspicious activities to the nearest NIRA office. The Authority reiterated that staying alert and informed is the best way to protect oneself from scams and ensure safe access to national identification services.