Collins Sefa Ghana’s economy lost an estimated GH₵14.9 million to cyber crime in the first half of 2025, according to new data from the Cyber Security Authority (CSA). The figure reflects a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2024, when total annual losses stood at GH₵23.3 million.
Fraud and impersonation accounted for more than 94% of all cases reported. Cyber incidents rose sharply, from 1,317 cases in H1 2024 to 2,008 in H1 2025.
Fraud and Online Threats on the Rise
Online fraud remained the most reported crime at 36%, followed by:
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Cyberbullying (25%)
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Online blackmail (14%)
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Unauthorised access (12%)
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Information disclosure (9%)
Government’s Response
Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, warned cyber-criminals of intensified crackdowns in collaboration with security agencies. He stressed that cybersecurity should now be treated with the same seriousness as physical safety.
Referencing the DataReportal Digital Report 2025, he noted that Ghana has 24.3 million internet users (70% penetration) and nearly 8 million active social media accounts. While digital growth is positive, he cautioned that increased online activity exposes citizens to greater risks.
The Minister further disclosed that amendments to the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) are being drafted to strengthen regulation while balancing innovation and user protection. His remarks came at the launch of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM 2025).
Law Enforcement & Dark Web Threats
Commissioner of Police Lydia Yaako Donkor, Director-General of the CID, stressed law enforcement’s dual role of prosecuting offenders and protecting citizens. She pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to dismantle criminal networks and improve public awareness.
CSA Director-General Divine Selase Agbeti revealed a disturbing trend: sensitive data from 35 Ghanaian institutions—including ministries, banks, hospitals, and universities—have been found circulating on the dark web, raising concerns about privacy and national security.
This year’s NCSAM campaign, themed “Building a Safe, Informed and Accountable Digital Space”, will focus on tackling misinformation, disinformation, and deepfake manipulation.
Academia’s Role
Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann, Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana, highlighted academia’s role in research and capacity building. Sharing her own encounter with online disinformation, she stressed that cyberspace “is not inherently safe” and urged more vigilance despite its benefits to innovation, e-commerce, telemedicine, and education.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month
October has been declared Cyber Security Awareness Month, with nationwide engagements planned to educate citizens on safe online practices and strengthen resilience against cyber threats.
