The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has warned the public about a sharp rise in online blackmail cases. Victims of these cybercrimes have lost close to GHS 500,000 in the first four months of the year.
These criminal schemes often involve online interactions, where fraudsters trick individuals into intimate video calls. They secretly record these sessions and then use the sensitive footage to extort money. These perpetrators commonly operate on social media platforms like TikTok, targeting unsuspecting individuals for financial gain.
This trend highlights Ghana's growing vulnerability to cybercrime, which affects both individuals and the broader digital economy. In the first half of 2025, Ghana recorded over 2,000 cybercrime cases, according to CSA data. Online blackmail and sextortion form a significant part of these incidents, impacting personal security and financial stability for many citizens.
Benjamin Maduro Avornyotse, the CSA's Acting Director of Communications, confirmed these incidents. He stated the authority has received numerous reports and made several arrests in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service. Mr. Avornyotse emphasized that these acts are criminal offenses under Ghana's cyber laws, explaining that using intimate videos without consent for extortion is illegal.
Individuals must exercise extreme caution when interacting with strangers online. The CSA advises against sharing personal or intimate content with people not met in person. Paying cybercriminals does not guarantee the removal of the sensitive material, making reporting crucial.
The CSA encourages victims to report such incidents immediately, rather than complying with payment demands. The authority works to help victims disengage from perpetrators and gathers information for investigations. The CSA also employs technical measures to prevent the spread of sensitive materials online when possible.
Full and accurate information from victims is vital for successful investigations and interventions. Incomplete reports can hinder authorities from addressing all blackmailed materials. The CSA continues to partner with the Ghana Police Service and its Cyber Crime Unit to track suspects, seize devices, and support legal proceedings.
These collaborations have led to several arrests and prosecutions, both locally and internationally. The Cyber Security Authority plays a central role in Ghana's fight against cyber-related crimes. Public vigilance and prompt reporting are essential to combat this escalating threat.