🚨12 COMMON SCAMS THAT TARGET YOUNG PEOPLE (AND HOW TO AVOID THEM)

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🧠 INTRO: YOU’RE A TARGET, NOT A FOOL Young people are smart, tech-savvy—and unfortunately, prime targets for online scammers. From flashy job offers to fake scholarships and “easy money” investments, the digital world is filled with traps that look tempting, especially if you're hustling to earn. This post isn’t here to scare you. It’s here to equip you. We’ll break down the most common online scams that target students, jobseekers, and young professionals—and how to spot them before it’s too late. 🚫 12 COMMON SCAMS THAT TARGET YOUNG PEOPLE (AND HOW TO AVOID THEM) 1. Fake Online Jobs Promising “Work From Home” Riches 👀 What It Looks Like: “Earn KSh 50,000/week working 2 hours a day from home!” These often appear in social media ads or shady Telegram groups. 📌 Real Example: Esther, a university student in Eldoret, paid KSh 1,000 for a “training manual” only to discover the company disappeared after that. ✔️ How to Avoid It: Legit jobs don’t ask for upfront payments. Cross-check...
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HOW TO START SAVING MONEY ON A TIGHT BUDGET (A GUIDE FOR STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONALS)

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Young adult budgeting money with envelope system at home



 Introduction 


Saving money sounds great… until your salary barely covers the basics or your student allowance is gone in a week. But what if I told you it’s still possible to save—no matter how tight things feel?


Whether you’re a student surviving on monthly stipends or a professional dealing with a modest paycheck, this guide will show you how to start saving money right now—even if you think you can't.


If you're still figuring out how to manage your money better, start with this beginner-friendly guide: 10 Simple Budgeting Hacks Every Student Should Know. It breaks down simple ways to stretch your money and build a solid foundation.


Section 1: Change the Mindset—Save First, Not Last


Example:

Before, I used to wait until the end of the month to see “what’s left” to save. Spoiler: nothing was ever left.


Tip:

Treat savings like a bill. The moment money lands in your account, move a portion to a savings wallet—even if it’s just KES 100.


Section 2:Have a Reason (Saving Without a Goal is Hard)


Saving is easier when tied to something you care about.


Ask yourself: Why am I saving?


Emergency fund?


Trip?


Future business?


New laptop?



Give your savings a name, not

 just a number.


Section 3: Track Every Coin


Hack:

Use free tools like Google Sheets Budget Templates or apps like Money Manager to track expenses.


Real Talk:

You’ll be surprised how small expenses—like KES 50 airtime top-ups or KES 200 snacks—can add up to thousands per month.



Section 4: Create a "Bare Minimum" Budget


Breakdown Example:


Rent: KES 4,000


Food: KES 3,000


Transport: KES 1,500


Savings: KES 500


Wants: KES 1,000



Tip:

List non-negotiables first. The rest? Optional. This ensures your essentials and savings are prioritized.



Section 5: Automate Your Savings


If you get paid through mobile money or a bank, set up an auto-transfer to your savings account or M-Shwari the moment you receive cash.


Example:

Set a standing order or schedule reminders to move 10% of your income to a locked savings account.



Section 6: Cut "Invisible Spending"


Ask Yourself:


Do I need this monthly subscription?


Can I walk instead of paying for a ride?


Is this expense helping my goals?



Challenge:

Go 7 days tracking every shilling—then cut out the unnecessary.


Section 7: Try the “Envelope” Method (Or Digital Version)


How It Works:

Split your cash into labeled envelopes (or folders on your phone). One for food, one for transport, one for fun.


Why:

You physically see your limits and avoid overspending.



Section 8: Shop Smart and in Bulk


Tip:

Buying sugar, rice, and oil in bulk is cheaper long-term. Use local markets and wholesale prices when possible.


Real Life Example:

I switched from daily shopping to weekly—and saved over KES 1,200 per month.



Section 9: Use Public or Cheaper Transport


Walking or using local options like “matatus” or bicycles when possible saves big.


Example:

A daily bodaboda trip = KES 100 x 20 days = KES 2,000 monthly! Could that go to savings instead?



Section 10: Earn Extra from Side Gigs or Selling


Ideas:


Freelance (writing, graphics)


Sell clothes/books/items online


Offer small services (design, tutoring, cleaning)


Note:

The more you earn, the easier it gets to save—even KES 300 extra can change things.



Section 11: Save Windfalls or Unexpected Money


Got a gift, bonus, or random refund? Don’t spend it. Save it.


Example:

When I got a KES 2,000 gift card from work, I saved the full amount. Unexpected money = unexpected savings.


Conclusion: You Can Save—Even on a Tight Budget


The truth is, savings is more about discipline than the size of your salary. Start small, stay consistent, and remember—even saving KES 500 a month is a win. Your financial freedom begins with what you do today.


Smart Side Hustles for Beginners


Call to Action (CTA):


Which one of these tips are you starting wit

h?

Share in the comments!


Don’t miss the next post:

Subscribe to Young Money Guide and get more practical financial tips straight to your inbox.


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