The Principal Manager of the Capacity Building Unit at the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Eric Kafui Bansah, has cautioned young people against engaging in cybercrime, describing it as a serious offence that destroys lives and opportunities.
Speaking at the launch of the Volta Youth Development Fund during the Volta YouthFest 2026 in Ho, Mr Bansah said technology was central to economic development, but its benefits could only be realised when users acted responsibly in the digital space.
“We cannot develop our economy without technology. As we move increasingly into the digital space, it is important that we also address cyber-related issues and remain conscious of our behaviour online,” he said.
He commended the Volta Regional Coordinating Council for organising the Volta YouthFest, describing the event as a celebration of the energy, creativity and promise of young people.
“The future of our nation rests in the hands of the youth, and the choices you make today will shape the Ghana of tomorrow,” he said.
Mr Bansah stressed that cybercrime should not be mistaken for innovation or entrepreneurship.
“Cybercrime is not smart. It is not innovation and it is not entrepreneurship. Cybercrime is simply a crime. It destroys lives, reputations and futures,” he stated.
He revealed that in 2025 alone, the Cyber Security Authority received more than 23,000 reports from citizens, out of which over 4,600 were confirmed cybercrime cases, while the rest were requesting advice on online safety.
According to him, common cyber scams included fake investment schemes, fraudulent job offers, romance scams and online shopping fraud, which together accounted for nearly 40 per cent of reported incidents.
Mr Bansah noted with concern that many of the victims and perpetrators involved in cybercrime were young people, including some senior high school students.
“Cybercrime may appear to be an easy shortcut, but the consequences are lifelong,” he warned.
He disclosed that the Authority, working with law enforcement agencies, had blocked thousands of fraudulent phone numbers, taken down hundreds of fake websites and removed several fake social media accounts linked to cybercrime activities.
Some cybercrime syndicates had also been dismantled in the Volta Region, leading to several arrests, he added.
Mr Bansah said the Volta Regional Minister was collaborating with the Cyber Security Authority to reduce cybercrime activities in the region.
“These actions send a strong message that cybercriminals will be found, arrested and prosecuted. The internet does not hide criminals; it exposes them. Every click leaves a trace and every account can be tracked,” he said.
He cautioned that individuals involved in cybercrime risk losing opportunities such as scholarships, employment, travel and security clearances.
“A few cedis gained illegally can cost you a lifetime of lost opportunities,” he added.
Mr Bansah, therefore, urged young people to use technology positively by developing digital skills, building businesses, and contributing to national development.
“You are talented, intelligent and capable. Use technology to learn new skills, build businesses, and uplift your communities rather than destroy your future,” he said.
He also warned against sharing indecent images online, noting that such actions often led to sextortion and blackmail with severe psychological consequences for victims.
Mr Bansah revealed that the Authority had handled cases involving young people, including senior high school students, who were blackmailed after sharing indecent images online.
He said the Cyber Security Authority remained committed to working with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, local assemblies, schools and the private sector to equip young people with legitimate digital skills.
Mr Bansah announced that the Authority would soon open a Volta Regional Office in Ho to strengthen cybersecurity education, support and protection for residents in the region.
