Safeguard all personal, financial information, including Mobile Money PINs, ATM PINs – BoG to general public

The Bank of Ghana has issued a warning to the public to protect sensitive personal and financial details, such as Mobile Money PINs, ATM PINs, internet banking passwords, One-Time Passwords, and verification codes. In a statement, the Central Bank emphasized that no reputable bank, mobile money service, payment service provider, or financial institution would ever ask customers for their PIN, password, or OTP through phone calls, text messages, emails, or social media platforms.

Customers are strongly advised against sharing confidential financial information with unknown individuals, even if they claim to represent a financial institution or telecom company. The Bank urged customers to be cautious of unsolicited calls, texts, emails, social media messages, and online links requesting personal or financial details, as well as to verify any investment opportunities before making any payments or transfers.

It also cautioned against "double-your-money" schemes, online Ponzi schemes, and dubious digital investment platforms, as they could result in significant financial loss. The Bank urged customers to keep a close eye on transaction alerts, bank statements, and mobile money notifications to quickly identify any unauthorized transactions.

It further advised financial consumers to use strong passwords and update them regularly to bolster the security of their digital financial accounts. The Central Bank highlighted the need for vigilance, awareness, and security-conscious behavior in the digital economy and concluded that the battle against digital financial fraud demands collective responsibility through awareness, education, responsible financial behavior, and adherence to cybersecurity practices.