The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has cautioned Ghanaians to remain vigilant amid a sharp increase in fraudulent online investment schemes that have cost victims more than GH¢3.4 million in the first half of 2026.
In a public advisory issued on Monday, July 6, the Authority revealed that it recorded 352 cases of online investment fraud between January and June this year, with total reported losses amounting to GH¢3,429,447.
According to the CSA, fraudsters are increasingly using social media platforms to advertise fake investment opportunities and directing victims to make payments through mobile money services.
“In their bid to appear credible, threat actors falsely present their schemes as subsidiaries of established foreign companies,” the Authority said.
Fraudsters Using Well-Known Brand Names
The CSA identified Darazz, a legitimate e-commerce company headquartered in Pakistan, as one of the brands whose identity has been fraudulently exploited by scammers to lure unsuspecting investors.
It also disclosed that fraudsters are operating under several other aliases, including Daily Trade, Ghstore, KUKA, and Edollar.
According to the Authority, the perpetrators typically use targeted advertisements on social media to promote supposed cryptocurrency mining ventures and online business investment opportunities, often promising exceptionally high or guaranteed returns.
However, victims reportedly receive neither the promised profits nor refunds after making their investments.
“The threat actors frequently rebrand themselves to evade detection by law enforcement agencies, local regulators and users,” the CSA warned.
Public Urged to Verify Investment Opportunities
The Authority has advised the public to exercise extreme caution when approached with online investment offers, particularly those guaranteeing unusually high returns.
It also urged Ghanaians to avoid joining unsolicited WhatsApp investment groups or responding to messages claiming to represent reputable organisations without first verifying their authenticity.
The CSA encouraged prospective investors to confirm the legitimacy of any investment opportunity through official channels and recognised regulatory bodies before committing their funds.
Reporting Suspicious Activity
The Authority further appealed to the public to report suspected investment scams and other cyber-related incidents to support ongoing investigations.
Members of the public can report incidents 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 [email protected].
