Forensics Specialist

Safaricom is currently seeking a highly skilled Forensics Specialist to join their team. This exciting opportunity offers a chance to contribute to the company’s fraud prevention and investigation efforts in a dynamic telecommunications environment.

Company Overview:

Safaricom is a leading telecommunications company in Kenya, known for its innovative mobile money service M-PESA and cutting-edge GSM network. They are committed to maintaining the highest standards of security and integrity in their operations.

Position Summary:

The Forensics Specialist will play a crucial role in safeguarding Safaricom’s assets and reputation by conducting fraud investigations, performing risk assessments, and analyzing complex data. This position requires a unique blend of technical expertise, analytical skills, and legal knowledge.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Risk Analysis and Audit:

• – Conduct proactive fraud reviews in high-risk areas across the business
• – Develop and optimize workflows for new and existing data
• – Perform advanced data analysis using multiple toolsets
• – Collaborate with business units to set and review acceptable risk thresholds
• – Assess risks within business projects and proposed process changes
• – Evaluate and improve existing controls to reduce residual risk

2. Forensic Reviews and Investigations:

• – Lead and undertake assigned fraud investigations
• – Generate and report insights from investigations
• – Prepare responses to fraud-related court cases filed against Safaricom
• – Represent Safaricom in court on fraud-related matters
• – Recommend improvements to address control weaknesses identified during investigations
• – Follow up on the implementation of fraud investigation control recommendations
• – Stay updated on the latest forensic trends and maintain relevant certifications
• – Apply relevant laws and regulations during investigations to prepare robust evidence files
• – Manage relationships with law enforcement agencies, justice system, and industry partners
• – Conduct digital forensic acquisition and analysis investigations

3. Data Analytics and Mining:

• – Perform data mining using multiple toolsets across various platforms, including big data and cloud environments
• – Conduct broad analytics using a variety of analytical tools
• – Define short-term analytical roadmaps for emerging fraud trends
• – Track root cause analysis for complex frauds using advanced analytics
• – Set up multi-source rules and insights
• – Create probe rules for future emerging risks
• – Lead analytical squads as needed

4. Automation, Reporting, and Tooling:

• – Demonstrate a deep understanding of the fraud risk landscape for GSM and M-PESA frauds
• – Identify opportunities to minimize manual data handling and reporting processes
• – Collaborate with data science and big data teams to solve complex fraud investigations
• – Define and implement reporting automation roadmaps aligned with stakeholder needs
• – Deliver high-quality self-service and automated solutions
• – Design performance metrics for automated controls
• – Quickly identify and address performance gaps in automated controls
• – Develop complex smart rules to automate fraud controls
• – Create AI/ML models for automated investigations

Requirements:

Education and Certifications:

• – Bachelor’s degree in Business, Computing, or a related discipline
• – Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification
• – Digital Forensics certification
• – Internationally recognized certification in Software Development (preferred)

Experience:

• – Minimum 5 years of experience in data analysis
• – At least 3 years of proven hands-on fraud management experience in M-PESA systems environment
• – Demonstrated knowledge of GSM network infrastructure and ecosystem

Skills and Competencies:

• – Proficiency in multiple data analysis and mining tools
• – Strong understanding of GSM network business models and processes
• – Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
• – Ability to work independently and manage complex projects
• – Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
• – Expertise in preparing and presenting professional reports
• – Familiarity with relevant laws and regulations, including the Kenya Information and Communications Act and the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act

This challenging role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on Safaricom’s fraud prevention and investigation efforts. The ideal candidate will be a detail-oriented, analytical thinker with a passion for uncovering the truth and protecting the integrity of Safaricom’s operations.

If you believe you have the skills, experience, and drive to excel in this position, Safaricom encourages you to apply. Join their team of dedicated professionals working to ensure the security and trustworthiness of Kenya’s leading telecommunications provider.

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter, and relevant certifications through the official Safaricom careers portal. Safaricom is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in their workforce.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.