Online impersonation: GH¢ 49.5 million lost by victims from Jan to July

About GH¢ 49.5 million has been lost from January to July by persons who suffered online impersonation.

Online Impersonation or Identity Theft occurs when a malicious actor assumes the identity of a prominent personality such as a politician, businessman, government official, diplomat, or a credible brand for financial gain or to harass, intimidate or threaten victims.

The Cyber Security Authority, in a public alert, noted that it has received about 58 reports from victims within the period in question.

It revealed that impersonators usually create fake profile or account that mimics legitimate personality or brand to deceive unsuspecting victims.

Also, the statement indicated that the scammers often use pressure tactics to get victims to act quickly without thinking through noting that Associates and business partners of victims may also become targets of the scheme.

Additionally, the statement outlined the various forms of online impersonation which are; Job/recruitment scams, Advance fee fraud, Investment scams,s and contract scams.

The CSA has meanwhile advised the general public to be cautious of unsolicited communications, especially from unknown individuals/sources, and suspicious of any promise of jobs, or protocol advantage for recruitment slots.

Furthermore, the authority is cautioning all to do due diligence and conduct extensive background checks to verify the legitimacy of an individual or organization/institution before engaging in any financial transaction.