CSA Records 720 Cases of Online Fraud from January to March

Ghana has recorded a total of 720 cases of online fraud in the first quarter of 2026, according to data from the Ghana Cyber Security Authority (CSA).

This represents a significant increase of 113% (an additional 382 cases) compared to the 338 cases recorded during the same period in 2025.

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA), therefore, reminded the public to exercise caution and due diligence in their online activities.

It highlighted three online scams that the Ghanaian public must be guarded against this festive season.

Online Shopping Scams
This is where malicious actors create fake online shops or impersonate existing businesses on social media pages, offering heavily discounted products.

Victims are enticed to send money for these deals, but never receive the items.

Brand Impersonation
This is where malicious actors create fake business listings or profiles with their contact details on Stogie Maps, mimicking legitimate businesses or brands and use search engine optimisation techniques to manipulate search results for the targeted brand to divert legitimate inquiries to the scammers’ contact numbers.

After the unsuspecting victims engage and pay (usually to a mobile money wallet) for products, the stammers block them and fail to deliver.

Phishing Scams
This is where 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.

Recommendations
The Authority therefore recommended that Ghanaians:
•Be cautious of unsolicited messages offering exciting or “too good to be true” deals connected to the festive season.

* 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 shops and institutions.

* 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.

* Do not share personal information such as your Ghana card number, credit card information, or bank account details with anyone.

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