Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has revealed that online shoppers lost more than GHC600,000 between January and October 2025 after falling for 266 Black Friday–related scams. Officials expect the numbers to rise as the holiday shopping period continues, warning that fraudsters typically become more active around major sales events.
According to the CSA, many of the scams start with impostor websites. Criminals create pages that resemble popular retail brands and use search-engine manipulation techniques to place their fake contact details in highly visible positions online. Shoppers who reach out through these fake listings are convinced to send advance payments for items that never arrive, after which the fraudsters disappear and cut all communication.
Another trend observed by the Authority involves social media storefronts claiming to sell heavily discounted products. Victims send money to mobile wallets that do not match the names of the supposed businesses, only to be blocked immediately after payment.
The CSA has also documented phishing attacks disguised as promotional offers. Shoppers are directed through links sent via email, SMS, or messaging apps to sites designed to look like legitimate stores. These pages capture sensitive details such as card numbers, passwords, and account information.
The Authority is urging the public to verify contact information on official platforms rather than relying solely on search results. It also recommends reviewing customer feedback before making purchases, sticking to trusted online retailers, treating unbelievable bargains with suspicion, and insisting on payment only after goods have been delivered and inspected.