Your Safety is Our Priority
WakaHelper has built-in safety features for both families and workers. Here’s how they work — and how you can stay safe.
How WakaHelper Protects You
WakaVerified identity checks
We verify every user's identity against a government-issued ID before granting full platform access. You always know the person you're talking to is real.
Locked contact details
Phone numbers and emails are hidden by default. Contact details are only shared after a paid unlock — this blocks scammers who mass-harvest personal information.
Zero-tolerance fraud policy
Any user who demands upfront payment, posts a fake listing, or misrepresents themselves is permanently banned. We monitor for these patterns actively.
Verified reviews only
Only users who have had a real employment relationship can leave a review. No anonymous ratings. No fake five-star campaigns.
Secure document storage
Identity documents are stored in a private, encrypted cloud bucket. They are never publicly visible and only accessed by authorised staff during verification.
Childcare safeguarding
Workers in childcare roles must be WakaVerified. Any report of child exploitation is escalated to Uganda Police immediately. See our full Child Safety Policy.
Safety Tips for Families
Always verify before inviting into your home
Even WakaVerified workers should be interviewed in person before being given access to your home. WakaVerified confirms identity — it does not replace your own judgement.
Check references directly
Ask for contact details of previous employers and call them directly. Ask specific questions: How long did they work? Why did they leave? Would you hire them again?
Start with a trial period
Before signing a full contract, agree on a paid trial period of 1–2 weeks. Pay the worker for this time. A trial lets both sides confirm the fit before committing.
Never withhold a worker's identity documents
Taking or keeping someone's ID card or passport as "security" is illegal under Ugandan law and is a form of coercion. Never do this.
Discuss boundaries and household rules clearly
Be clear about what areas of the home the worker can access, what they are and are not responsible for, and how privacy is managed for your family and for them.
Use the platform's messaging system
Keep initial conversations on the platform. This gives both parties a record and makes it easier to report any issues.
Safety Tips for Workers
Never pay to get a job
Legitimate employers on WakaHelper do not charge workers any fee to apply, interview, or secure a position. If anyone asks you to pay — even a small amount — it is a scam. Report it immediately.
Meet in a public place first
Before visiting a family's home, meet them in a public place (a café, shopping centre, or market) for the first interview. Tell someone you trust where you are going and who you are meeting.
Do not hand over your ID documents
An employer may ask to see your ID, but they have no right to keep it. If anyone demands your National ID or passport as a condition of employment, refuse and report it to trust@wakahelper.com.
Insist on a written contract
Before starting work, make sure you have a signed contract that states your duties, salary, working hours, and notice period. The WakaHelper platform generates one for you. Keep your copy.
Trust your instincts
If a job offer feels wrong — the pay is suspiciously high, the family is evasive, or you feel pressured — walk away. Your safety is worth more than any placement.
Know your rights
Under Uganda's Employment Act 2006, you are entitled to a written contract, minimum wage, annual leave, and safe working conditions. If these are denied, contact the Labour Office in your district.
Common Scam Red Flags
If you see any of these, stop and report immediately.
Asked to pay a fee before or during job application
Salary offered is unrealistically high for the role
Employer refuses to meet in person before hiring
Asked to send money via mobile money before starting
Contract terms change after you arrive at the home
Employer is vague about location, duties, or family size
Asked to hand over your National ID or passport
Job listing has no location, salary, or contact verified
Report a Safety Concern
Seen something suspicious? Experienced abuse or a scam attempt? Report it — your report helps protect everyone on the platform.
Emergency? Call Uganda Police: 999 · Child Helpline: 116