Cyber Security Authority Flags Rising Mobile Data Scam, Cautions Public
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has raised an alert over a growing wave of mobile data bundle scams across the country, with GH¢73,510 lost in 63 reported cases between January and July 2025.
In a public advisory issued on August 1, the regulator warned that fraudsters are targeting unsuspecting individuals by offering mobile data at heavily discounted rates through SMS, WhatsApp messages, and social media advertisements. The perpetrators, often masquerading as representatives of telecom operators, aim to trick users into sharing personal and financial information or making advance payments for non-existent data bundles.
“These scams are increasingly sophisticated, involving phishing links, malware downloads, and tactics to extract sensitive information such as mobile money PINs or WhatsApp verification codes,” the CSA stated.
Victims are lured into clicking malicious links or making payments through mobile money platforms, only to find their accounts compromised and their funds siphoned. In some cases, attackers have gained access to online banking or social media accounts, exploiting stored credentials.
The CSA has advised the public to verify promotional offers through official telecom customer service channels and avoid engaging with unsolicited data bundle advertisements. Ghanaians are also urged not to share sensitive credentials or codes via messaging platforms and to activate two-factor authentication on digital accounts.
To bolster cybersecurity incident response, the Authority has made available a 24-hour reporting and assistance service via phone (292), WhatsApp (0501603111), and email (report@csa.gov.gh).
The alert underscores persistent vulnerabilities in Ghana’s digital ecosystem, particularly as the use of mobile money and online platforms continues to grow. It also reflects a broader regional trend of cyber fraud targeting everyday mobile users.
