Cyber Security Authority records GH‵209.7m in losses from cybercrime

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has revealed that Ghana lost an estimated GH₵209.7 million to cybercrime between January and September 2026. Speaking at the 5th Cyber Secure Volta Regional Conference in Ho on October 23, the Director-General of the CSA, Dr. Divine Selase Agbeti, reported that the country recorded 4,938 cyber security incidents during the nine-month period. These figures represent a significant surge in both the frequency and the financial impact of digital crimes compared to the previous year.

The sharp rise in financial losses is particularly stark when compared to 2025, where 4,604 reported incidents resulted in losses of approximately GH₵22.5 million. Dr. Agbeti noted that the current figures might still represent only a fraction of the actual problem, as many victims choose not to report incidents due to fears of embarrassment or social stigma. He emphasized that the Authority is working to demystify cybercrime reporting and encouraged the public to adopt more responsible digital behaviors to mitigate the growing threat.

During the conference, which brought together roughly 200 participants including security personnel and students, the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, urged public sector employees to take personal responsibility for safeguarding official information. He stressed that the protection of sensitive state data cannot be left to the government alone and requires strict adherence to security protocols by every individual within the administrative chain. Professor Lydia Aziato, Vice Chancellor of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), also pledged the university's support in collaborating with the CSA to enhance cybersecurity education.

To further strengthen the national defense against digital threats, the CSA announced plans to establish a permanent office in the Volta Region by the end of 2026. This expansion is intended to improve cooperation with local law enforcement agencies and provide more accessible support for victims in the region. Dr. Agbeti concluded by calling for heightened community vigilance, urging citizens to report suspicious online activities immediately to the Authority to help stem the tide of financial loss and data breaches.