Kenya Railways warns against fake Madaraka Express booking platforms
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, July 8, 2026The Kenya Railways has cautioned members of the public against falling victim to fraudulent websites and online platforms posing as official booking channels for the Madaraka Express Passenger Service.
In a public notice issued on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, Kenya Railways said it had observed an increase in fake booking platforms designed to deceive customers into paying for train tickets through unauthorised channels. It warned that unsuspecting passengers risk losing their money and exposing their personal information to fraudsters.
Official booking channels
Kenya Railways has cautioned that the fraudulent websites are not affiliated with the corporation and urged passengers to exercise caution when making ticket purchases. The corporation emphasised that all bookings for the Madaraka Express Passenger Service should only be made through its official booking channels: the online booking portal at https://metickets.krc.co.ke, the USSD code *639#, or by visiting any Madaraka Express Passenger Service station across the country.
The corporation also clarified that all official communication regarding its passenger services will only be made through the telephone numbers 0709 907 000 and 0709 907 555.
The corporation has advised the members of the public to disregard any calls, messages, or communications originating from other numbers claiming to represent Kenya Railways.
Kenya Railways distances itself from losses through fraud
Kenya Railways further stated that it will not be held liable for any financial losses or inconveniences arising from bookings, payments, or communication conducted outside its official channels.
It has urged passengers to verify the authenticity of booking platforms before making payments and to remain vigilant against online scams.
The warning by Kenya Railways Corporation comes amid growing cases of cyber fraud targeting travellers, with scammers increasingly creating fake websites that closely resemble legitimate booking platforms to steal money and personal information.
Kenya Railways has therefore called on the public to use only its verified booking methods to ensure safe and secure travel arrangements on the Madaraka Express Passenger Service.