M-PESA Introduces Data Minimization Feature to Enhance Customer Privacy

Safaricom has introduced a new data minimization feature on its M-PESA Send Money (P2P) service, aimed at strengthening customer privacy while maintaining transaction transparency.

The update comes amid continued growth in mobile money usage, with M-PESA recording **14.1 million daily active P2P customers**, facilitating approximately **37 million transactions daily** out of a total **137.9 million transactions**, and accounting for **KSh 27 billion** in daily transaction value out of **KSh 118 billion**.

### Key Changes

To enhance privacy, Send Money notifications will now display a partially masked phone number instead of the full mobile number. For example, users will see a format such as 0722xxx000 rather than the complete number.

Customers will also have the option to share their full contact details with recipients when necessary, ensuring flexibility while maintaining control over personal information.

### What Customers Will See

* Masked mobile numbers in transaction notifications

* Sender’s two names remaining visible for easy identification

* Transaction details unchanged to preserve transparency

The move reflects Safaricom’s commitment to safeguarding user data while adapting to the evolving needs of millions of Kenyans who rely on M-PESA for daily financial transactions.