The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has unveiled a new mobile application to be used as a consumer verification tool for Excise Stamps.
In a statement on Monday, January 29, KRA said it had updated its Soma Label application from version 2.1.2 to version 3.0.1 for better performance and user experience.
Besides giving the user an overview of the excise stamps, the application will enable one to report observations and view previous scans.
After installing the app on your device, the application appears as an icon with KRA’s logo and the phrase “Soma Label”.
Click the icon to launch the application. It will start with the KRA Logo before prompting you to accept the ‘Terms & Conditions’ and later open six onboarding screens.
In the new version, authentication starts with scanning the barcode.
How to Check Authenticity Using New KRA App
The authentication entails two stages including scanning the bar code of the stamp and checking for color shift on the stamp.
To scan, hold your phone over the excise stamp and focus the scanner margin, aligning the frame with the barcode on the product packaging.
While scanning the code, adjust the camera to ensure clarity. Also, upon scanning, it will show ‘Barcode scanned’.
In case of an unsuccessful scan, the user will have the option of inputting the barcode manually.
Also Read: 200 Bottles of Counterfeit Alcohol Seized in Ruai
After successfully scanning the barcode, the application opens the stamp-scanning page.
To scan, the code should be aligned within the frame. At the top right side, the interface will display a flash button that can be switched on or off depending on the light conditions.
On the bottom right side, the red button with a code icon gives the user an option of switching between a DMX and a QR code depending on the type of code on the stamp.
According to KRA, genuine stamps should show a color shift that is noticeable by the human eye when tilted.
Also Read: Kenya Losing Revenue in Manufacturing Due to Fake Stamps & President Ruto
Verification of Stamps
After scanning, the app gives the option of confirming color shifting where the user selects yes or no according to their judgment by the naked eye as guided by the animation on the screen.
A green gauge indicates successful verification, and a red gauge indicates failed verification.
In case of failed verification there is an option to report which opens to the report page. Fill in the fields and click on ‘Report a problem’ again.
This new application comes against a backdrop of rising sale of counterfeit products using fake KRA stamps.
Among products commonly caught using fake stamps in the country are alcoholic drinks.
