MTN Ghana warns SMEs against sharing PINs amid digital fraud risks

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have been urged by MTN Ghana not to share their personal identification numbers (PINs) or respond to suspicious codes and links, according to Eric Antwi, Regional Sales Manager for MTN Business, Northern Business Unit. Antwi stressed that digital security begins with the individual user, emphasizing that entrepreneurs must take personal responsibility for safeguarding their digital and mobile financial accounts as more businesses adopt digital platforms.

He cautioned SMEs against fraudsters who might send messages or codes and ask recipients to input them into their phones. Antwi advised business owners to remain vigilant about suspicious links, unsolicited requests for codes, and fraudulent calls purportedly originating from MTN. He highlighted that protecting digital accounts is crucial as SMEs increasingly utilize digital financial services such as transaction platforms, savings accounts, and loan access.

MTN Business introduced participants to various digital solutions, including Adwumapa, designed to support women entrepreneurs with custom digital services, and YellowBiz, which enables SMEs to establish an online presence through websites. MTN identified five SMEs during the training program for additional support, which would include financial literacy training, coaching, and mentorship to bolster their operations.

Antwi emphasized that SMEs require more guidance, hands-on assistance, and mentorship to thrive. Participants reported that the training equipped them with practical skills to enhance their businesses, manage customers, and foster teamwork. Ruth Afari Boakye, founder of Black Girl Natural Ventures, a natural hair-care products business, expressed appreciation for the training, particularly in understanding digital payments and customer relations.

She noted that MoMo, a popular digital payment method, is widely used for most transactions, and she learned how to leverage it to bolster her business. Another participant, Margaret Bansah, CEO of Marjjbans Enterprise, which formsulators BansNaturals Skin and Hair Care Products, emphasized the importance of understanding various personality types and working with younger generations (Gen Z) to build stronger teams and drive business growth, stating that collective effort from all team members is essential to achieve their goals.