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MTN Ghana has held a Bright Conversations on Cybersecurity in Accra where industry experts shed light on the growing threat of cybercrime in Ghana. According to Isaac Socrates Mensah, Senior Manager at the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), online fraud, unauthorized access, and data exposure were among the top cyber incidents reported in the country.
"The top three most reported incidents are online fraud, unauthorized access, and data exposure," Mr Mensah said. "In online fraud, we see cases where individuals are tricked into divulging sensitive information or performing certain actions that compromise their security. In unauthorized access, we see cases where individuals' WhatsApp accounts are compromised, and the perpetrators use the account to scam contacts."
Mr Mensah emphasized the importance of digital hygiene and cybersecurity awareness. "It's a social problem that requires a collective effort to address," he said, adding “we need to work together to create a safe and secure digital environment."
He also disclosed how the CSA had made significant progress in addressing cybercrime, including blocking over 1,300 numbers engaged in cybercrime activities and conducting over 200 domain takedowns.
Seth Gyapong Oware, Senior Manager Legal and Compliance at the CSA, added that securing Ghana's digital future required a multi-faceted approach. "We need to be abreast with times, what's going on, and anticipate what is going to be done next," he said. He stated that the threat actors were already doing their research and development.
Mr Oware emphasized the importance of collaboration and capacity building in addressing cybersecurity threats. He emphasized the need to build capacity, especially in the area of cybersecurity awareness creation.
Jacqueline Hason-Kotei Senior Manager for Enterprise Information Security and Governance at MTN Ghana who moderated the session highlighted how MTN Ghana's commitment to cybersecurity reflected in its partnership with the CSA and other stakeholders to promote cybersecurity awareness and protect customers from cyber threats.
She noted that Ghana had been actively involved in promoting cybersecurity awareness through various initiatives. Recently, the company conducted a cybersecurity training program for its customers and staff. The training program covered topics such as online safety, password management, and how to identify and report cybercrime incidents.
