Online Scams & Fraud in Ghana
Online scams and fraud are steadily rising in Ghana with scammers using deceptive practices to cause significant financial losses and emotional distress. One common form of fraud in Ghana is the infamous MoMo Fraud, which targets mobile money users.
Disturbingly, statistics reveal that a staggering 45% of all cybercrime cases reported in Ghana are related to fraud. As technology continues to evolve and criminals become increasingly sophisticated, it is crucial for both locals and foreigners to remain vigilant and educated about the various forms of online scams and fraud to protect themselves and their finances.
Read on to find out where you can report scams, where you can get support as well as how to report a scam in Ghana.
Scam Statistics in Ghana
The key statistics on online fraud in Ghana, according to the Global Anti Scam Alliance.
| 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |
| Population | 29.77 million | 30.42 million | 31.07 Million | 31.7 million |
| Internet Penetration | 43% | 45% | 57% | 54% |
| # of Scams | 35,000 | |||
| Scams / 1,000 | 1.10 | |||
| Money Lost | € 22.94 million | |||
| Money Lost / Capita | € 0.72 | |||
| Money Lost / Report | € 655.25 |
The figures in the table will differ strongly per year as various sources have been used, pending on availability.
Where Can I Report a Scam in Ghana?
- Police- You can report any online scam at your local police station. You can also reach them through the toll-free number 18555.
- Criminal Investigations Department (CID)- You can also report online scams and fraud to the Cybercrime Unit of the CID.
How to Report a Scam in Ghana
Reporting a scam is crucial. At the moment, only 7% of all scams are reported. As a result, only 0.05% of all cybercriminals are caught. Reporting online fraud is not only essential if you want to try and get your money back. It is also needed to help law enforcement fight scammers better.
- Gather info: Collect all information about the suspected fraud including the name, telephone, key web pages, emails, IP address, and any other information relevant. This is needed to file a complete report.
- Report the incident: Always report to your local law enforcement and note the file number they might provide for your fraud report for future reference.
- Stop the Money: Report the incident to the financial institution that transferred the money such as your bank, Paypal, credit card company, or the Internet payment service provider.
- Protect yourself: Scammers often contact you again. Sometimes with the same scam. Sometimes to help you “recover your money”. Consider changing your email address/phone number. Also, install the ScamAdviser browser extension to warn you of scams.
Our article “How and Where to Report a Scam” gives you more detail and tips on how you can best report online fraud.
Scam Victim Support in Ghana
We are unaware of any scam victim support organization in Ghana.
How to Check for a Scam in Ghana
Of course, you can always check for scams on ScamAdviser.com. However, there are several other sources where you can check if a website is registered as a company and if it can offer financial, gambling, or other regulated services as well.
- Securities and Exchange Commission Ghana (SEC)- You can check for investment scams here as they are in charge of the securities market in Spain.
Anti-Scam Organizations & Consumer Authorities
- The Cyber Security Authority (CSA)- Regulates cybersecurity activities in Ghana and promotes the development of cybersecurity and related activities.
- The Ghana National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-GH)- They respond principally to cyber infractions on government networks and they serve the private sector as well
Popular Scams in Ghana
Momo Scams in Ghana
MTN Mobile Money (MoMo) fraud has emerged as a predominant issue in Ghana, particularly affecting vulnerable individuals who often struggle with literacy. MoMo scams are tricks that target people who use mobile money services in Ghana. These scams are a big problem in the country and affect people from all backgrounds. The scammers use different methods to trick and cheat unsuspecting victims, taking advantage of their lack of knowledge about how mobile money works.
One common trick is called phishing. Scammers send messages or make phone calls impersonating mobile money companies or banks. They try to get people to share their personal information, like their account details, passwords, or PIN numbers. Once they have this information, they can access the victims' accounts without permission and do illegal things with the money.
Another common trick is when scammers pretend to be real mobile money agents. They might set up fake shops or act like they work for a real company. They make attractive offers or give discounts to convince people to put money into their accounts. Once the money is in their hands, they disappear, leaving the victims without their money and feeling cheated.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Bank of Ghana has actively engaged with financial entities to implement stringent measures aimed at mitigating the impact of this fraudulent activity.
Scam News From Ghana
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