The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has reported that over GHS4 million was lost to scammers between January and March of this year.

0

In a post on their official Facebook page, the CSA highlighted a sharp increase in online fraud cases, with 305 incidents recorded in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 194 cases during the same period last year.

1

The total financial loss has surged from GHS 2,404,161 in 2024 to GHS 4,425,851 in 2025.

2

"The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has received 305 cases of online fraud between January and March this year, a significant increase from 194 cases recorded during the same period last year. Similarly, the total financial loss has surged from GHS 2,404,161 recorded last year to GHS 4,425,851 this year," the CSA stated in its post.

3

The authority noted that scammers have been taking advantage of the increased commercial activity during festive seasons such as Eid al-Fitr and Easter. These periods, which see a surge in consumer spending and online shopping, have become prime targets for fraudsters.

4

The CSA outlined several common tactics used by scammers to deceive victims. Fraudsters often create fake online stores or impersonate legitimate businesses on social media, offering deeply discounted products and encouraging victims to make payments for items that never arrive.

5

Scammers also create fraudulent business listings on Google Maps or fake profiles, manipulating search engine results. Consumers searching for legitimate businesses are diverted to scammers, who then collect payments for products or services that are never delivered.

6

Additionally, cybercriminals send deceptive emails or messages, often claiming to be from a romantic partner or a company offering festive deals. These messages contain links or attachments that, when clicked, either steal personal data or install harmful malware.

7

As online scams continue to rise, the CSA is urging the public to exercise caution, particularly during high-traffic shopping seasons like Eid al-Fitr and Easter. The authority has provided several recommendations to help individuals safeguard themselves. Consumers are advised to be cautious of unsolicited offers; if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is.

8

They should avoid clicking on suspicious links or messages offering unbelievable discounts tied to festive seasons. When shopping online, it is important to stick to reputable online stores and thoroughly check reviews before making a purchase.

9

Scammers often manipulate search engine results to mislead consumers, so it is essential to verify business details through official websites or reliable sources before engaging. Consumers should ensure secure payments by only making payments after inspecting the goods, and for mobile payments, ensure the transaction is directed to the official account of the business.

10

Lastly, consumers are advised to protect their personal information by never sharing sensitive personal details, such as Ghana Card numbers or bank account information, with unverified contacts or websites.

11

The CSA continues to support victims and anyone seeking advice on cybercrimes. They can be contacted through the 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact (PoC) via call/text at 292, WhatsApp at 0501603111, or email at report@icsa.gov.gh.

12

Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and follow these guidelines to avoid falling victim to fraud.

13