Why the Nockia G61 Is a Fake Phone Flooding the Kenyan Market
Kenya’s smartphone market, driven by demand for affordable and reliable devices, has become a target for counterfeit products, with the so-called “Nockia G61” emerging as a prominent fake phone. This article explains why the Nockia G61 is a counterfeit device, identifies the original Nokia phone it likely emulates, and provides practical advice for consumers to avoid purchasing fake phones. Additionally, we highlight trusted retailers in Kenya where genuine Nokia smartphones can be purchased.
The Nockia G61: A Counterfeit Device
The Nockia G61 is not a legitimate product from Nokia, a Finnish brand known for its durable and innovative smartphones. The misspelling of the brand name (“Nockia” instead of “Nokia”) is a clear indicator of its counterfeit nature, a common tactic used by forgers to deceive buyers. As of July 2025, Nokia’s current smartphone lineup, managed by HMD Global, includes models like the Nokia G42 5G, Nokia G22, and Nokia X30 5G, with no mention of a G61 model, as confirmed by Nokia’s official website and reputable Kenyan retailers. Historical reports from 2008 noted fake Nokia models like the N81 and N95 in markets like the Philippines, suggesting a long-standing issue with counterfeit Nokia phones, which continues in Kenya today.
The Nockia G61 is likely flooding Kenya through informal markets, street vendors, and unregulated online platforms like Jiji.co.ke or social media marketplaces, where fake phones are often sold at low prices. According to a 2020 Business Daily report, up to 24.6% of handsets in Kenya are “unknown” or fake, overtaking brands like Nokia, which once dominated with an 80.4% market share in 2010. The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has conducted raids, seizing millions of shillings worth of counterfeit phones, yet the problem persists due to weak enforcement and consumer unawareness.
The Original Phone: Nokia G60 5G
The Nockia G61 is most likely attempting to emulate the Nokia G60 5G, a midrange smartphone released by HMD Global in 2022, known for its durability, sustainability, and 5G connectivity. The similar naming (“G61” vs. “G60”) suggests counterfeiters are exploiting the Nokia G-series’ reputation for affordability and reliability. Below are the key specifications of the genuine Nokia G60 5G, as listed by retailers like Phone Place Kenya and Nokia’s official site:
- Display: 6.58-inch IPS LCD, 1080 x 2400 pixels, 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm), offering solid performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.
- RAM and Storage: 4GB/6GB RAM with 64GB/128GB storage, expandable via microSDXC.
- Camera: Triple rear camera (50MP main, 5MP ultrawide, 2MP depth) and an 8MP front camera for decent photography.
- Battery: 4500mAh with 20W fast charging, providing up to two days of moderate use.
- Operating System: Android 12 (upgradable to Android 14), with a near-stock Android experience and three years of OS updates.
- Additional Features: IP52 water resistance, side-mounted fingerprint sensor, 5G support, and eco-friendly design with 60% recycled plastic.
- Price in Kenya: Approximately KSh 20,000–KSh 30,000, depending on the variant and retailer.
In contrast, counterfeit phones like the Nockia G61 typically use low-quality components, such as cheap plastic builds, low-resolution displays, and outdated processors. They often run modified Android operating systems that mimic Nokia’s clean interface but include glitches, bloatware, or malware, posing risks to user data and safety.
Why the Nockia G61 Is Flooding the Kenyan Market
Several factors contribute to the proliferation of fake phones like the Nockia G61 in Kenya:
- Nokia’s Brand Legacy: Nokia’s historical dominance in Kenya (80.4% market share in 2010) makes it a prime target for counterfeiters, who exploit its reputation for durability to sell fake devices.
- Price-Sensitive Market: Kenya’s demand for affordable smartphones creates an opportunity for counterfeiters to offer fake phones at prices far below genuine models (e.g., KSh 5,000 for a Nockia G61 vs. KSh 20,000 for a Nokia G60 5G).
- Unregulated Sales Channels: Informal markets, street vendors, and online platforms like Jiji.co.ke or social media marketplaces often lack seller verification, making them hubs for counterfeit phones. Listings on platforms like Alibaba and DHgate openly advertise fake phones, including Nokia clones.
- Weak Regulatory Enforcement: Despite efforts by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) and the ACA, counterfeit phones continue to enter through smuggling, often from China. A 2024 report noted that up to 40% of phones in Kenya may be fake, highlighting the scale of the issue.
- Consumer Unawareness: Many buyers, especially in rural areas, are unaware of how to verify a phone’s authenticity, making them vulnerable to scams. Counterfeiters use convincing packaging and fake brand logos to deceive consumers.
How to Avoid Buying Fake Phones in Kenya
To avoid purchasing a counterfeit phone like the Nockia G61, follow these steps recommended by tech experts, the CA, and Nokia’s guidelines:
- Verify the IMEI Number:
- Dial *#06# to display the phone’s International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, or check it on the box or under Settings > About Phone.
- Send the IMEI via SMS to 1555, a free service by the CA, to confirm the phone’s make and model. If the IMEI is invalid or doesn’t match a Nokia model, the phone is likely fake.
- Verify the IMEI on Nokia’s official warranty check page (https://www.nokia.com/phones/en_int/support) to confirm authenticity and warranty status.
- Inspect the Phone Physically:
- Check for misspellings or incorrect logos (e.g., “Nockia” instead of “Nokia”). Genuine Nokia phones have high-quality builds with precise branding and Gorilla Glass displays.
- Examine the screen for quality. The Nokia G60 5G has a sharp 120Hz IPS LCD, while fakes often have pixelated or low-resolution displays.
- Test buttons and ports for alignment. Counterfeit phones may have loose buttons or uneven ports.
- Test the Operating System and Performance:
- Genuine Nokia phones run a near-stock Android experience (e.g., Android 12 or 14 on the G60 5G) with access to Google Play Store and Nokia’s promised updates. Fake phones often use modified Android versions with glitches or pre-installed apps like TikTok Lite.
- Test the camera. The Nokia G60 5G’s 50MP camera produces clear images, while fakes often yield blurry photos. Check EXIF data in the gallery to confirm camera specs.
- Be Cautious of Unrealistic Prices:
- If a phone is priced significantly below the market rate (e.g., KSh 5,000 for a “Nockia G61” when the Nokia G60 5G costs KSh 20,000), it’s likely fake. Compare prices with trusted retailers.
- Buy from Reputable Retailers:
- Purchase from authorized Nokia dealers or trusted stores to ensure authenticity and warranty support. Avoid informal markets, street vendors, or unverified online sellers like those on Alibaba, DHgate, or Jiji.co.ke, which are known for listing fake phones.
- Check seller ratings and reviews on online platforms to confirm credibility.
- Examine Packaging and Accessories:
- Genuine Nokia boxes use high-quality materials with clear branding and no spelling errors. Accessories like chargers should have Nokia branding. Fake boxes often have low-resolution printing or fake seals.
Where to Buy Genuine Nokia Phones in Kenya
To ensure you’re purchasing an authentic Nokia smartphone, such as the Nokia G60 5G, shop at these trusted retailers, which offer genuine devices with warranties and reliable after-sales support:
- Phone Place Kenya
- Website: www.phoneplacekenya.com
- Stocks Nokia models like the G60 5G and G22 (KSh 20,000–KSh 30,000), with fast delivery (1–2 hours in Nairobi, 24 hours nationwide) and pay-on-delivery options.
- Gadgets Leo
- Website: www.gadgetsleo.com
- Offers genuine Nokia phones, including the G42 5G and C32, with competitive pricing and fast delivery (2 hours in Nairobi, 24 hours elsewhere). Payment on delivery available.
- Jumia Kenya
- Website: www.jumia.co.ke
- Features Nokia smartphones like the G60 5G and C-series from verified sellers. Ensure you buy from authorized vendors to avoid fakes. Offers pay-on-delivery and discounts.
- Avechi Kenya
- Website: www.avechi.co.ke
- Stocks Nokia models like the G60 5G and X30 5G, with prices starting at KSh 20,000. Offers fast delivery and warranty commitments.
- Phones Store Kenya
- Website: www.phonesstorekenya.com
- Provides genuine Nokia phones, including the G60 5G and C21 Plus, with prices starting at KSh 15,000. Offers nationwide delivery and warranties.
- Badili Kenya
- Website: www.badili.ke
- Specializes in certified refurbished smartphones, including Nokia models, with a 12-month warranty and easy payment plans. Ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking genuine devices.
Conclusion
The Nockia G61 is a counterfeit smartphone exploiting Nokia’s legacy and the popularity of models like the Nokia G60 5G to deceive Kenyan consumers. Its presence reflects the broader issue of fake phones, which account for up to 40% of the market and pose risks to performance, safety, and data security. By verifying the IMEI number, inspecting the device’s build and software, and purchasing from trusted retailers like Phone Place Kenya, Gadgets Leo, Jumia, Avechi, Phones Store Kenya, or Badili Kenya, consumers can avoid scams. Always prioritize authenticity over suspiciously low prices and use the Communications Authority of Kenya’s IMEI check (SMS to 1555) or Nokia’s warranty page (https://www.nokia.com/phones/en_int/support) to confirm a phone’s legitimacy. Stay vigilant to enjoy the reliability and quality of a genuine Nokia smartphone.