The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a strong warning to the public following a rise in cyberbullying, harassment, and blackmail linked to unlicensed mobile loan applications operating in Ghana.
The Authority revealed that from January to May 2025, it received 377 complaints relating to such digital lending platforms—a significant jump from 228 cases reported in all of 2024.
The CSA attributes the increase to the aggressive recovery methods used by these unauthorized loan apps, which frequently flout data protection regulations and consumer rights.
Many of these platforms operate outside Ghana’s legal and regulatory frameworks and are not under the supervision of the Bank of Ghana or relevant financial authorities.
According to the CSA, users are often offered unsolicited loans, and when they are unable to repay on time, the apps resort to harassment.
Victims report receiving threats of defamation, blackmail, and intimidation.
In several instances, private information—including photos, contact lists, and messages—has been extracted from users’ devices and shared with third parties, friends, or family members as a form of coercion.
“These apps operate without legal backing and often disregard consumer protection laws. Engaging with them exposes users to serious risks, including data breaches, harassment, and financial loss,” the CSA warned in an official statement.
Credit: JOYONLINE