By Ashiadey Dotse
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has warned the public to be on high alert following a sharp increase in fraudulent online investment schemes, which have cost victims more than GH¢3.4 million in the first half of 2026.
In a public alert issued on Monday, July 6, 2026, the CSA said, it recorded 352 cases of online investment fraud between January and June this year. The total financial losses have already reached GH¢3,429,447, even though we are only half way through the year.
According to the Authority, the scammers operate under different names and fake identities, promising investors unusually high returns to lure them into sending money through mobile money platforms.
The CSA said the fraudsters often advertise their schemes on social media and falsely claim to be subsidiaries of well-known foreign companies to gain the trust of potential victims. One company name being misused is Darazz, a legitimate e-commerce company based in Pakistan.
The Authority explained that victims are persuaded to invest in supposed cryptocurrency mining projects or online business ventures. However, once the money is transferred, the promised returns never materialise and victims are unable to recover their investments.
To avoid detection, the scammers frequently change their identities and rebrand their operations. The CSA said some of the names recently used by the fraudsters include Darazz, Daily Trade, Ghstore, KUKA, and Edollar.
The Authority urged Ghanaians to be cautious of online platforms promising unrealistic investment returns and to avoid joining WhatsApp groups or responding to unsolicited messages claiming links to reputable organisations.
It also advised the public to verify the legitimacy of investment opportunities through official channels or recognised regulatory bodies before investing any money.
The CSA further encouraged victims and members of the public to report suspicious contacts or fraudulent schemes to help ongoing investigations.
The Authority said its 24-hour Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Incident Reporting Centre remains available to receive reports and provide guidance on suspected online scams.
Read more here
