Cyber Security Authority Warns of Rising Food Vendor Scams as Losses Exceed GH¢296,000

Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent public alert following a dramatic rise in impersonation scams targeting restaurants and food vendors. Between January and June 2026, the authority recorded financial losses totaling GH¢296,083.68, marking a significant escalation in cybercriminal activity within the digital food delivery space. These fraudsters specifically exploit unsuspecting customers who attempt to order meals through online platforms, leading to direct financial losses for consumers and reputational damage for legitimate businesses.

The scam primarily involves the sophisticated manipulation of Google Search and Google Maps listings. Cybercriminals either create entirely fraudulent business profiles or alter the contact information of existing, reputable restaurants to redirect calls and inquiries to themselves. When a customer attempts to place an order, the scammers provide fraudulent payment instructions, often demanding advance payment via mobile money or unfamiliar links. Once the transaction is completed, the scammers disappear, and the promised food is never delivered.

Statistical data from the CSA reveals a worrying trend, with the number of reported cases nearly doubling year-on-year. During the first half of 2025, 61 cases were recorded with a total loss of GH¢84,592; however, by the same period in 2026, the number of incidents surged to 112. This sharp increase in both the frequency of attacks and the total value of stolen funds suggests that scammers are refining their tactics to successfully deceive a larger segment of the public who have become increasingly reliant on digital ordering services.

To combat this growing threat, the CSA has advised the public to verify all vendor contact details through official channels, such as verified social media pages or official websites, before initiating any payment. Consumers are cautioned against using unfamiliar payment links and are encouraged to monitor their financial accounts for any unauthorized transactions. Simultaneously, business owners are urged to take proactive steps to secure their Google Business Profiles and regularly audit their online presence to ensure their contact information remains accurate and hasn't been tampered with by external actors.