The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has warned of a sharp rise in online scams ahead of the Easter holidays, as fraudsters target increased consumer spending during the festive period.
The agency said it recorded 720 cases of online fraud between January and March 2026, a 113% increase from the 338 cases reported during the same period last year.
The spike reflects growing sophistication among cybercriminals, who are exploiting social media platforms, search engines and mobile money systems to defraud unsuspecting users.
According to the authority, one of the most prevalent tactics involves fake online shopping platforms, where scammers advertise heavily discounted goods to lure victims into making upfront payments for items that are never delivered.
Another emerging threat is brand impersonation, where fraudulent actors create fake business listings, including on mapping services, to mimic legitimate companies. These listings are often optimized to appear in search results, diverting customers to scam-operated contact lines where payments are requested, typically via mobile money.
Phishing scams also remain widespread, with attackers sending unsolicited messages posing as companies or personal contacts offering Easter-related deals. These messages often contain malicious links designed to steal personal data or install harmful software.
The authority urged consumers to exercise caution when engaging in online transactions, particularly during high-activity periods such as Easter.
It advised the public to verify sellers through official websites or trusted sources, avoid deals that appear unusually attractive, and refrain from sharing sensitive personal or financial information.
Consumers were also encouraged to adopt safer payment practices, including confirming the identity of vendors and, where possible, paying only after delivery and inspection of goods. The authority said it has activated 24-hour reporting channels to assist victims and respond to suspected cyber incidents, as part of efforts to contain the surge in fraud cases.
The warning highlights broader concerns over the rising cost of cybercrime in Ghana’s digital economy, where increased connectivity and mobile payments are expanding both commercial opportunities and exposure to online threats.
