The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a public alert regarding a surge in scams wherein criminals are utilising Google Maps and Google Search to impersonate well-established companies.
According to the authority, these fraudulent listings, which frequently appear at the top of search results, contain fictitious phone numbers, emails, and websites.
The alert explained that when a user contacts these fake numbers, they are connected to criminals posing as customer service agents.
The scammers then deceive victims into sharing sensitive information like OTPs and PINs, which they use to steal money from mobile wallets.
It has therefore advised the Ghanaian public to remain vigilant to avoid falling prey to this scheme.
The CSA recommends several key steps. It advised the public to always cross-check contact details on a company’s official website rather than relying solely on Google.
It further urged the public to be cautious of paid “Ad” results, as scammers often use them to place their fraudulent links at the top.
For institutional businesses, the CSA advises regularly searching your own brand online to identify fraudulent listings.
Additionally, it called on business owners to proactively share verified contact details across all official platforms and monitor online reviews for mentions of fraud.
The CSA encourages organisations to acquire official toll-free numbers that can be centrally managed to ensure consistency and build public trust.
Meanwhile, CSA says it has a 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Point of Contact (PoC) for anyone who needs to report a cybercrime or seek assistance.
Such individuals can reach them by calling or texting 292, via WhatsApp at 0501603111, or by email at report@csa.gov.gh.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
