The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has raised concerns over a sharp increase in online investment scams, revealing that Ghanaians lost more than GH¢3.4 million to fraudulent schemes between January and June 2026.
In a public advisory issued on July 6, the Authority said it recorded 352 cases of online investment fraud during the six-month period, with total losses amounting to GH¢3,429,447.
According to the CSA, scammers are using social media platforms to advertise fake investment opportunities, often directing victims to make payments through mobile money services. To gain credibility, the fraudsters falsely claim to be affiliated with well-known foreign companies. The Authority identified Darazz, a legitimate Pakistan-based e-commerce company, as one of the brands being impersonated. Other aliases currently linked to the scams include Daily Trade, Ghstore, KUKA, and Edollar.
The fraudulent schemes typically promise high returns from cryptocurrency mining or online business ventures. However, victims reportedly receive neither the promised profits nor refunds after making payments.
The CSA warned that the perpetrators frequently change their identities to evade detection by law enforcement and regulators. It urged the public to be cautious of investment offers that guarantee unusually high returns, avoid unsolicited WhatsApp investment groups, and verify the legitimacy of any investment opportunity through official channels before investing.
The Authority also encouraged the public to report suspected online investment scams and other cyber-related incidents through its 24-hour Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Incident Reporting Centre.