The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has reported 194 cases of online fraud between January and March this year, resulting in a total financial loss of around GH¢2,404,161.
According to the Authority, malicious actors create fake online shops or impersonate existing businesses on social media pages, offering heavily discounted goods.
They also create fake business listings or profiles with their contact details on Google Maps mimicking legitimate businesses or brands and use search engine optimization techniques to manipulate search results for the targeted brand to divert legitimate inquiries to the scammers’ contact members.
After the unsuspecting victims engage and pay (usually to a mobile money wallet) for products, the scammers block them from making further contact, and the expected delivery does not materialize.
Malicious actors send unsolicited emails or messages claiming to be from a romantic partner, or a company offering deals associated with the festive season.
“These messages contain links or attachments that when clicked, install malicious software (malware), or steal personal information,” the Cyber Security Authority.
The Authority has therefore cautioned the general public to be aware of unsolicited messages offering exciting or “too good to be true” deals.
“Use a reputable online marketplace or retailer when purchasing items or gifts. Consider reviews and customer feedback before making an online purchase. Search engines can be manipulated to show misleading results. Check on the official website or with reliable sources to validate the contact details of the shop you are searching for.
“Insist on payment only after delivery and inspection and ensure that mobile money payments are made to wallets in the name of the online shop you are dealing with.”
The Authority has advised against sharing personal information such as your Ghana card number, credit card information or bank account details with anyone.
Most Ghanaians are CROOKS, what they is often intentional, they bring in Nigerians to do most of the STEALING for them and pretend NOT to have any knowledge of what is going on.
If any Ghanaian lacks contacts they give it to a Nigerian who will have easy access and take a commission.