National Trading Standards warns of rising AI-enhanced retail scams

Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications educates Mankessim traders on MoMo fraud

The Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications (GCT) has launched a public education drive at the Mankessim Market to combat the increasing prevalence of mobile money (MoMo) fraud. Dubbed the "Mankessim Market Storm," the event brought together telecommunications stakeholders to engage directly with traders and consumers on safe digital practices. GCT Chief Executive Officer Sylvia Owusu-Ankomah emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader effort to provide continuous public education as a primary defense against scammers who exploit digital financial systems. Central to the sensitization effort was the threat of social engineering, a tactic where fraudsters manipulate individuals into disclosing sensitive personal information. Owusu-Ankomah urged users to safeguard their mobile money wallets and personal data with the same level of care they apply to physical assets. Security officials present at the event provided practical advice on identifying fraudulent calls and messages, noting that vigilance is the most effective tool in preventing financial loss. Traders were encouraged to never share their Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) or follow instructions from unknown callers regarding their accounts. Beyond financial security, the Chamber used the platform to address common public misconceptions regarding telecommunications infrastructure. Specifically, officials tackled concerns about potential health risks associated with the installation of mobile towers in residential areas. The Chamber clarified that all telecommunications equipment adheres to strict safety standards and is only deployed after obtaining the necessary permits from regulatory bodies. This segment of the education aimed to foster community support for the infrastructure required to maintain reliable connectivity. The event also allowed market participants to share their personal experiences with digital fraud, highlighting the real-world impact of these crimes. Many traders recounted near-misses and successful scams, underscoring the necessity of the Chamber's intervention. As digital financial services continue to expand across Ghana, the GCT maintains that proactive engagement and digital literacy are essential to ensuring that the benefits of financial inclusion are not undermined by criminal activity. The Chamber plans to continue such engagements in other communities to strengthen the nation's digital ecosystem.