"Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority Warns of Rising Festive Season Scams"

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority Warns of Rising Festive Season Scams

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a public alert warning of a sharp rise in online fraud cases targeting consumers during the Eid al-Fitr and Easter festive seasons.

According to the CSA, 305 cases of online fraud were reported between January and March 2025, a significant increase from 194 cases recorded in the same period last year.

The financial losses from these scams have nearly doubled, surging from GHC 2.4 million in 2024 to GHC 4.4 million this year.

Scammers Exploiting Festive Season to Defraud Consumers

The CSA outlined the primary tactics employed by cybercriminals, which include online shopping scams, brand impersonation, and phishing attacks.

• Online Shopping Scams: Fraudsters create fake e-commerce platforms or impersonate legitimate businesses on social media, luring victims with heavily discounted prices. Customers make payments but never receive their purchases.

• Brand Impersonation: Scammers manipulate search engine results and create fake business listings on platforms like Google Maps to direct unsuspecting customers to fraudulent websites. Once payments are made via mobile money, scammers cut off communication, leaving victims with no recourse.

• Phishing Scams: Cybercriminals send unsolicited emails or messages claiming to be from trusted individuals or companies offering festive deals. These messages often contain malicious links that install malware or steal sensitive personal information.

CSA’s Recommendations for Consumers

To avoid falling victim to these scams, the CSA advises the public to be cautious of deals that appear “too good to be true” and to verify online retailers before making purchases. Consumers should also be wary of manipulated search results, avoid sharing sensitive financial details, and only make payments after delivery and inspection of goods.

The CSA has urged individuals who encounter suspected scams to report them through its 24-hour Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact. Victims can reach out via call or text at 292, WhatsApp at 0501603111, or email report@csa.gov.gh.

As online fraudsters become more sophisticated, authorities emphasize the need for vigilance and responsible online shopping practices to safeguard personal and financial security during festive seasons.