The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has expressed concern over a sharp rise in cybercrime incidents across Ghana, warning of increasing threats to online safety and national security.

Reported cases climbed from 1,317 in the first half of 2024 to 2,008 during the same period in 2025, underscoring the scale of the challenge.

According to CSA data, the most prevalent cases were online fraud (36%), cyberbullying (25%), and online blackmail (14%). Financial losses linked to these crimes rose by 17% year-on-year, reaching GH?14.94 million, with online fraud and impersonation alone accounting for more than 90% of the losses.

Speaking at the media launch of the 2025 Cybersecurity Awareness Month on Wednesday, September 3, Divine Selasi Agbeti, Director-General of the CSA, stressed the need to prioritise online safety as Ghana deepens its digitalisation drive.

“Concerns over data security and online privacy are growing, which in turn breeds distrust and undermines national security efforts. This year’s awareness month will address these concerns and promote the ethical use of technology,” he said.

This year’s campaign is themed: “Building a Safe, Informed, and Accountable Digital Space.”

Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, urged greater government investment in cybersecurity infrastructure, legislation, and law enforcement capacity.

“The pace of technology demands sustained development. I call on the private sector to strengthen its defenses and report cases promptly. Silence empowers criminals, but collaboration helps us all,” she noted.