Ghanaians lost an estimated US$1.3 million to mobile money (MoMo) fraud during the first quarter of 2025, according to INTERPOL’s Africa Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2025.
The report identifies mobile money fraud as one of the fastest-growing cyber threats across the continent. It warns that scammers continue to exploit the rapid growth of digital financial services.
INTERPOL says cybercriminals increasingly target mobile money users through phishing messages, fake investment schemes, identity theft and social engineering tactics. These methods often trick victims into revealing passwords, one-time verification codes or other sensitive financial information.
The findings come as Ghana continues to record strong growth in digital payments. Mobile money has become one of the country’s most widely used financial services, allowing millions of people to send money, pay bills and conduct business transactions without visiting a bank.
The convenience of digital payments has expanded financial inclusion. Same time, it has created new opportunities for cybercriminals to target unsuspecting users.
According to INTERPOL, fraud networks continue to evolve. Criminal groups now use sophisticated technology and coordinated operations to bypass security measures and deceive victims.
The report also notes that cyber-enabled crimes extend beyond mobile money fraud. Business email compromise, online shopping scams, ransomware attacks and identity fraud remain major concerns across Africa.
Security experts say public awareness remains one of the strongest defences against cybercrime. They encourage mobile money users to avoid sharing personal identification numbers, passwords or one-time passcodes with anyone.
Experts also advise users to verify payment requests before sending money. They recommend enabling security features offered by mobile money providers and reporting suspicious transactions immediately.
Financial institutions, telecommunications companies and regulators have continued to strengthen fraud detection systems and customer education campaigns. These measures aim to reduce financial losses while protecting confidence in digital payment platforms.
Ghana has experienced significant growth in digital financial services over the past decade. Mobile money has become an important driver of commerce, particularly for small businesses and people without access to traditional banking services.
Industry analysts say maintaining public trust will require continued investment in cybersecurity, stronger collaboration among regulators and service providers, and sustained public education on emerging online threats.
INTERPOL urged governments, financial institutions and technology companies across Africa to deepen cooperation against cybercrime. The organization said intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement remain essential as scammers increasingly operate across national borders.
While digital payments continue to support economic growth and financial inclusion, the report highlights the need for stronger cybersecurity measures to protect users and preserve confidence in the expanding digital economy.
