BoG cautions public against digital financial fraud, ‘double-your-money’ schemes

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned the public against falling prey to digital financial fraud and schemes promising to double their money. The central bank emphasized the importance of vigilance and security measures when using digital financial services, including mobile money, internet banking, and ATMs.

According to the BoG, consumers should never share sensitive financial information, such as Mobile Money PINs, ATM PINs, internet banking passwords, One-Time Passwords (OTPs), and verification codes, with unauthorized individuals. Legitimate institutions will never ask for such details via phone calls, text messages, emails, or social media.

The bank specifically cautioned against responding to unsolicited messages, links, or offers promising high returns with minimal risk. Such investment schemes, including "double-your-money" schemes and online Ponzi operations, are likely to result in significant financial losses. Consumers are advised to thoroughly verify any investment opportunity before committing funds and to avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

To enhance account security, the BoG recommended that users regularly monitor transaction alerts, bank statements, and mobile money notifications. It also advised the use of strong, regularly updated passwords and the activation of security features like transaction alerts, biometric verification, and two-factor authentication where available.

In the event of suspected fraud, unauthorized transactions, SIM swaps, or account compromises, the BoG urged individuals to report the incidents immediately to their financial institution, mobile network operator, or the relevant service provider.