Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

AudityNewsAudityNews

Business

How 352 Ghanaians lost over GH¢3.4m to online investment scams in just six months

A person using a smartphone displaying an investment app while cyber security warning graphics appear in the background (Illustrative)
A person using a smartphone displaying an investment app while cyber security warning graphics appear in the background (Illustrative)

More than GH¢3.4 million has been lost to online investment scams in Ghana within the first six months of 2026, prompting the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) to issue a fresh public warning. The Authority says it recorded 352 fraud cases between January and June, with scammers increasingly using social media and mobile money platforms to lure unsuspecting victims with promises of high investment returns.

This story falls under: Business

Follow our WhatsApp channel for more interesting and relevant news

Social media fuelling rise in investment fraud

The advisory, issued on Monday, July 6, said fraudsters are promoting fake investment opportunities across social media before directing victims to send money through mobile money accounts.

The CSA revealed that victims collectively lost GH¢3,429,447 during the six-month period, underscoring the growing financial impact of cyber-enabled fraud in Ghana.

The Authority said criminals often attempt to appear legitimate by falsely claiming their schemes are linked to well-known international companies. In one example, it identified Darazz, a legitimate e-commerce company based in Pakistan, as a brand whose name has been fraudulently used to deceive investors.

Other names currently being used by the scammers include Daily Trade, Ghstore, KUKA and Edollar.

The warning comes as cybercrime continues to evolve in Ghana, with fraudsters adopting new tactics to exploit the popularity of digital payments and online investing.

Ghana land crisis deepens as 98% of land remains unregistered, exposing buyers to rising disputes

CSA urges public to verify investment opportunities

According to the Authority, the fraudsters typically advertise supposed cryptocurrency mining ventures and online businesses that promise unusually high or guaranteed returns.

After victims transfer money, however, they neither receive the promised profits nor recover their original investments.

“The threat actors frequently rebrand themselves to evade detection by law enforcement agencies, local regulators and users,” the CSA said.

The Authority urged Ghanaians to be cautious of unsolicited investment offers, especially those circulating through social media and WhatsApp groups.

It also advised the public to independently verify any investment opportunity through official channels and recognised regulators before committing funds.

Anyone who encounters a suspicious investment scheme or cyber-related incident is encouraged to report it through the CSA’s 24 hour Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Incident Reporting Centre by calling or texting 292, sending a WhatsApp message to 0501603111, or emailing report@csa.gov.gh.

Why it matters

The latest figures highlight how online investment scams continue to pose a growing financial threat despite repeated public warnings. As more Ghanaians embrace digital payments and online investment opportunities, cybersecurity experts say verifying the legitimacy of platforms before sending money remains one of the most effective ways to avoid becoming a victim.

Related reads

Explore more

News | Business | Entertainment | Lifestyle | Sports

You May Also Like

News

A middle-aged father of six identified as Mr Kpakpo has been named among those who died in Thursday’s fatal multi-vehicle crash at Ofankor Barrier...

News

Former Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) CEO Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu has been released from Nsawam Medium Security Prison despite the Attorney-General’s continuing challenge to...

News

Nigerian comedian Parrot Mouth has reacted strongly after a Nigerian national was arrested in connection with a foiled armed robbery operation targeting three banks...

News

The spokesperson for the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, has called for the arrest and prosecution of an unidentified Islamic cleric over preaching...