Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent public warning ahead of the Easter holidays, disclosing that online fraud cases more than doubled in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year, as cybercriminals exploit the festive season’s surge in consumer spending.
In a statement issued on April 2, 2026, the CSA revealed that it received 720 cases of online fraud between January and March 2026, representing a 113 percent increase, equivalent to an additional 382 cases, compared to the 338 cases recorded during the same period in 2025.
The authority attributed the spike to increased commercial activity during festive seasons, and identified three primary tactics being deployed by fraudsters against Ghanaian consumers.
The first involves fake online shops, where malicious actors create counterfeit storefronts or impersonate legitimate businesses on social media, advertising heavily discounted goods. Victims are enticed into making upfront payments but never receive the items ordered.
The second tactic is brand impersonation, where fraudsters create fake business listings or profiles on Google Maps, mimicking established companies and using search engine optimisation techniques to divert legitimate customer inquiries to scam-operated contact lines. Payments, typically made via mobile money wallets, are collected before the scammers block victims and disappear.
Phishing scams remain the third major threat, with attackers sending unsolicited messages posing as businesses, romantic contacts, or retailers offering Easter-related deals, with malicious links designed to steal personal data or install harmful software.
The CSA urged members of the public to use reputable online marketplaces and check reviews and customer feedback before making purchases. It also warned consumers against sharing personal information such as Ghana Card numbers, credit card details, or bank account information with anyone online.
The authority advised consumers to pay only after receiving and inspecting goods where possible, to verify seller identities through official channels, and to avoid any deals that appear unusually attractive.
The CSA confirmed it has activated round-the-clock reporting channels to assist victims and respond to suspected cyber incidents. CSA Director-General Divine Selase Agbeti has previously urged the public: “If you feel unsafe, report to CSA’s 24-hour helpline on 292 via call or text.” Incidents can also be reported via WhatsApp on 0501603111 or by email at [email protected].
