The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a public warning following a significant rise in fraudulent online investment schemes targeting individuals across the country.

The Authority revealed that 352 cases of online investment fraud were reported during the first half of 2026, resulting in financial losses estimated at GH¢3,429,447.

The scams, which continue to spread through various online platforms, have become increasingly sophisticated as fraudsters adopt new identities and methods to deceive unsuspecting victims.

According to the CSA, social media platforms remain the primary channel used by scammers to promote their fake investment opportunities. The criminals also rely heavily on mobile money services to receive payments from victims.

To gain public trust, the fraudsters often falsely claim to operate as subsidiaries or partners of recognised international companies. The CSA noted that legitimate businesses, including Darazz, a Pakistan-based e-commerce company, have been impersonated by scammers to make their schemes appear genuine.

Other aliases linked to fraudulent activities include Daily Trade, Ghostore, KUKA, and Edollar.

The schemes typically attract victims with promises of quick and unusually high returns, often involving cryptocurrency mining equipment rentals, online business tasks, or other digital investment opportunities.

However, after victims transfer their money, they either receive no promised returns or lose their original funds entirely. The perpetrators frequently change names and platforms in an attempt to avoid detection and continue their operations.

The CSA has urged the public to remain vigilant and conduct proper checks before committing funds to any online investment platform. It advised individuals to avoid responding to unsolicited investment offers, especially messages or WhatsApp groups claiming links with reputable organisations.

The Authority further encouraged citizens to verify investment opportunities through official channels before making payments. Members of the public have also been encouraged to report suspicious online activities through the CSA’s 24-hour reporting channels to help curb the growing threat of cyber-enabled financial fraud.