Tech tips · · 3 MIN READ
Before you send that money: digital-payment scams to watch in Ghana
Fake payment alerts, urgent money requests and stolen verification codes can catch anyone off guard. Here are simple ways to protect your money and report a scam.
A message lands: “Send the money quickly.” The name looks familiar, the story sounds serious, and you are ready to help. Before you tap send, pause. A familiar profile picture does not prove who is behind a message.
Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority has made digital-finance security the focus of its October 2026 awareness campaign. Its launch highlights threats including impersonation, online fraud and payment diversion. Here is what that means for our everyday MoMo and online payments. Read the CSA campaign announcement
1. That urgent request might not be your friend
Accounts can be taken over and used to ask contacts for money. If a request feels unusual, call the person using a number you already know before paying. Do not rely only on replies from the same account that sent the request. CSA guidance on WhatsApp account takeovers
2. Your PIN and verification codes are private
Never share your MoMo PIN or one-time verification code with someone who calls or messages you, even if they claim to work for your provider. Avoid unexpected links asking you to reset your wallet or verify an account. Open the official app yourself or contact support through a trusted official channel. CSA mobile-money fraud advice
3. Check the payment yourself
Selling something? A screenshot or forwarded message is not enough proof of payment. Check your own wallet or bank transaction history before handing over goods. If someone claims to have sent money by mistake, verify it with your provider before taking instructions from the caller.
4. Double-check a changed payment account
If a supplier or business suddenly gives you a different account for payment, confirm the change through a contact you already trust. Check the recipient name and amount before confirming any transfer. Pressure to act immediately is a reason to slow down.
Already sent money? Act quickly
Contact your bank or mobile-money provider through its official support channel straight away. Save the transaction reference, messages, phone numbers and screenshots. Report the incident to the CSA: call or text 292, WhatsApp 0501603111, or email report@csa.gov.gh. Reporting promptly helps the response, but does not guarantee that money will be recovered. Official CSA reporting channels
My take
Digital payments make life easier. Let’s keep using them, with one small habit: pause and verify before sending. Helping a friend can wait for a quick call. Your PIN should stay with you.
More from my journal
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Thinking about your next phone? Here is my take on the Android and iPhone conversation. Android or iPhone: which is best?
Sources checked on 5 October 2026. The CSA’s mobile-money and WhatsApp advisories are existing safety guidance, not newly announced incidents. Cover photo: officials at the 2026 National Cyber Security Awareness Month media launch. Credit: Cyber Security Authority, Ghana. Photo source: CSA
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