Cyber Security Authority Urges Public to Use 292 Hotline to Combat Irreversible Online Fraud

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a critical advisory to the Ghanaian public, urging citizens to utilize the 292 short code to verify the legitimacy of online transactions before transferring funds. This warning comes amid rising concerns over digital financial crimes, where Senior Manager Alex Awere-Kyere highlighted that once money is withdrawn by fraudsters, the chances of recovery are virtually non-existent. The initiative aims to provide a proactive shield against the increasing sophistication of cyber-enabled financial fraud by encouraging pre-transaction verification. Speaking at a press engagement in Accra, Awere-Kyere explained that while the CSA collaborates closely with various security agencies to investigate fraudulent activities, they cannot guarantee the restitution of funds once they have been liquidated by criminals. The engagement was part of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project, an initiative designed to equip over 100 journalists with the necessary skills for accurate and responsible cybersecurity reporting. This training underscores the vital role the media plays in educating the public on safe digital practices and the legal protections available. The discussion also focused on the legal framework provided by the Cybersecurity Act, 2020. This legislation empowers the sector minister to designate and protect critical information infrastructure essential to national security and the economy. Furthermore, the CSA cautioned media practitioners against the dissemination of unverified claims or propaganda originating from cybercriminals. Officials warned that publishing such information without verification can inadvertently facilitate malicious activities and lend undue credibility to criminal enterprises. As Ghana continues to expand its digital economy, the CSA maintains that public vigilance is the first line of defense. Citizens are encouraged to treat the 292 hotline as a standard safety check for any transaction that appears suspicious. By fostering a culture of verification and professional reporting, the authority aims to mitigate the impact of cyber threats and ensure a more secure digital environment for all Ghanaians.