Ghanaians lost GH¢499,044 to online blackmail and sextortion between January and April 2025, per new data from the Cyber Security Authority (CSA).
That’s nearly a fivefold increase from the GH¢103,663 recorded during the same period in 2024.
The big picture
The surge in financial losses reflects how cybercriminals are refining tactics—especially through fake romantic relationships on social media—to exploit victims.
How it works:
- Scammers create fake profiles using attractive photos.
- They lure victims into intimate conversations.
- Once victims share explicit content, the criminals demand money—typically via mobile money—under threat of leaking the material online.
- Many victims continue to face threats even after paying.
What’s new
The CSA says reports of sextortion have slightly increased compared to the 155 cases recorded in early 2024. Many perpetrators now use encrypted apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal to evade tracking.
What they’re saying
“Sending money doesn’t stop the blackmail,” the CSA warned, urging the public to be cautious online.
What to watch
The CSA is encouraging people to avoid unknown online contacts, never share intimate content, and report suspicious behavior through its 24-hour cybersecurity hotline.
