How do I check if a loan app has been blacklisted by regulators?

Visit your country's financial regulator website and search for the app name in their public blacklist or approved list.

Regulators around the world maintain public lists of illegal lenders and approved lenders. Checking these lists takes only a few minutes and can save you from a debt trap.

Country-Specific Blacklists and Registries

Nigeria:

The FCCPC maintains a register of approved digital money lenders. As of January 2026, over 450 lenders have full approval, while at least 45 apps have been officially blacklisted .

Apps delisted include WeCredit, Hen Credit Loan App, Cash Door App, Swiftkash App, Joy Cash Loan, Getloan, Cameloan, and over 40 others .

How to check: Visit fccpc.gov.ng/registration-of-digital-money-lenders

India:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) maintains a "Digital Lending Apps (DLAs) deployed by Regulated Entities" list. Only apps on this list are permitted to operate .

Google Play also enforces this – only RBI-approved apps can publish loan apps targeting India .

How to check: Visit RBI website and search for the official DLA directory

Kenya:

The Central Bank of Kenya publishes a Directory of Digital Credit Providers. Only listed providers are licensed to operate .

How to check: Visit CBK official website

Philippines:

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) maintains blacklists of illegal lending apps. The PAOCC coordinates enforcement against these apps .

How to check: Visit SEC Philippines website

Thailand:

The Bank of Thailand publishes lists of licensed personal loan and nano-finance providers. Interest rates must be clearly disclosed .

How to check: Visit Bank of Thailand website

United States:

Google Play bans loan apps with APR above 36% . State-level licensing can be checked through each state's Department of Financial Institutions.

Step-by-Step Protection Guide

Step 1: Before downloading any loan app, open your browser and go to your country's regulator website.

Step 2: Search for the app name in the approved list or blacklist.

Step 3: If the app is not on the approved list (or is on the blacklist), DO NOT DOWNLOAD.

Step 4: Share this information with friends and family. Most victims never check these lists.

Step 5: Bookmark your country's regulator website for future reference.