The government has renewed calls for greater vigilance and collaboration in tackling cybercrime, warning that digital fraud poses a growing threat to public confidence in Ghana’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, at the Graphic Business/Stanbic Bank Breakfast Meeting held at Labadi Beach Hotel, the Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations emphasized that Ghana’s digital future depends on trust, security and collective responsibility.
The event brought together stakeholders from government, the financial sector, telecommunications industry and the media to discuss strategies for safeguarding digital transactions and strengthening cybersecurity awareness.
Addressing participants, the Deputy Minister highlighted the growing sophistication of cybercriminals, citing mobile money scams, phishing attacks, SIM-swap fraud, fake investment schemes and business email compromise as some of the major threats confronting individuals and businesses.
He warned that beyond financial losses, cybercrime undermines public trust in digital platforms and threatens efforts to build a resilient digital economy.
The Deputy Minister outlined measures being pursued by the government under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama to address emerging digital risks.
These include the review of existing laws to align them with current cybersecurity challenges, the launch of a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, and strengthened collaboration with banks, telecommunications companies, regulators and security agencies.
He, however, stressed that government efforts alone would not be sufficient to combat cyber threats.
According to him, financial institutions must continue investing in stronger security systems, telecommunications operators must safeguard their networks, and the media must intensify public education on online safety.
The Deputy Minister also urged the public to adopt safer online practices, advising individuals to verify links before clicking on them, avoid sharing sensitive personal information without confirmation, be cautious of offers that appear too good to be true, and promptly report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
He noted that as Ghana’s digital economy continues to grow, protecting citizens and businesses from cyber threats must remain a shared responsibility among all stakeholders.
