Scammers target ECG customers with fake meter sales and MoMo payment calls

Scammers are targeting Ghanaian electricity customers through fraudulent meter sales and requests for MoMo payments, according to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). Dr Charles Nii Ayiku Ayiku, ECG's General Manager for External Communications, has warned the public to avoid sending money to personal MoMo numbers and to only use the ECG Power App or shortcode *226# for transactions.

Two schemes are being employed by the fraudsters. The first involves posing as ECG staff or agents and offering new meters for a fee, often advertised on WhatsApp, social media platforms like TikTok, or in person. Customers who pay receive an unregistered meter, which ECG treats as an illegal connection. The second scheme begins with a phone call, where the caller claims to work for ECG and informs the customer that their meter is ready.

The caller then provides a MoMo number and demands immediate payment. ECG staff never request payments through personal mobile money wallets, Dr Ayiku emphasized.

The scammers rely on creating a sense of urgency to pressure victims into paying without verifying the information. To protect themselves, customers are advised to take their time and verify any requests before acting. Never send money to a MoMo number provided by a caller, even if they claim to be ECG staff. Additionally, customers should refrain from buying meters from individuals, online ads, or WhatsApp contacts, and instead, purchase power and pay bills only through the ECG Power App or *226#.

Always keep personal PINs, passwords, and verification codes confidential. When someone claiming to be from ECG visits your home or shop, request a staff ID card to verify their identity. If a call seems suspicious, end the conversation and report the number to ECG and the police.