Core payment terms
The Central Bank of Kenya describes the role and oversight of payment service providers in the National Payments System. Provider terms determine the specific meaning and handling of a particular transaction.
| Term | Plain meaning | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Payment service provider (PSP) | A business authorised to provide specified payment services | Current CBK directory and provider terms |
| Merchant | The platform or business receiving or requesting payment | Exact name in the official cashier or prompt |
| Transaction reference | An identifier for a particular payment instruction | Keep private; share only through verified support |
| Pending | A status not yet shown as final in that system | Ask the party that owns the status |
| Reversal | A provider process to return or cancel an eligible transfer | Follow current official rules; not guaranteed |
| OTP | One-time code used in an authentication flow | Never disclose it to a caller or chat agent |
Mobile and app terms
These definitions are introductory, not legal interpretations. Always read the service terms and current support documentation when a status or requirement affects your account.
| Term | Plain meaning | Practical note |
|---|---|---|
| USSD | A menu session accessed through a phone dial code | Check the displayed recipient and amount |
| Merchant checkout | A payment page or cashier controlled by the merchant | Availability can differ by account |
| App publisher | The organisation responsible for an app listing | Verify in the official store |
| Permission | Device access granted to an app | Grant only when relevant and understood |
| SIM swap | A change that moves a number to another SIM or service | Contact the network operator if suspected |
Terms that should trigger a pause
- “Guaranteed reversal” before the provider has assessed the case.
- “Share your PIN or OTP to verify” from a caller or chat.
- “Send to this personal number instead” when an official cashier is unavailable.
- “Install remote access” to help with a payment.
Stop and verify through the official website or app of the payment provider or merchant.
Official sources and further checks
External links open official information pages. Availability and terms can change; verify the current details directly with the provider.
Important
This guide is educational and is not an instruction to place a bet. BetPayKE does not process payments, confirm merchant availability or provide account support. Never share a PIN, password or OTP.