Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has sounded the alarm over a disturbing rise in cybercrime linked to unlicensed mobile lending apps, warning the public to steer clear of platforms that promise quick loans but deliver harassment, data breaches, and digital abuse.
In an alert released on May 31, 2025, the CSA revealed that it had received 377 reports of cyberbullying linked to these apps between January and May, a sharp increase compared to the 228 cases recorded throughout 2024.
The Authority noted that many of the offending apps offer unsolicited microloans typically under GH₵200 by directly depositing funds into users’ mobile wallets without any formal request. Once the funds are disbursed, users are bombarded with threatening messages demanding repayment, often laced with intimidation and blackmail.
“These apps engage in abusive tactics such as demanding repayment with high interest from the victim or someone close to them, and threatening to circulate actual or fabricated nude photos of the victim on social media,” the CSA said.
Victims also reported being branded as criminals for delayed repayment, with some continuing to receive threats even after settling their debts.
In addition to psychological harm, the CSA stressed that the apps harvest sensitive user data, including phone contacts, ID information like Ghana Card numbers, and private images during installation. This data is later weaponized to coerce, shame, or publicly humiliate users.
“These apps credit small amounts of money, often less than GH₵200, into users’ mobile wallets without any formal loan request,” the CSA warned. “Shortly afterwards, operators of the apps begin to harass users with aggressive demands for repayment, often accompanied by threats.”
According to the Authority, the operations of these apps violate multiple laws, including the Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843) and the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930). The CSA cited Bank of Ghana notices BG/GOV/SEC/2022/10 and BG/GOV/SEC/2023/07 as official positions against the use of such platforms.
The CSA also named several apps implicated in the ongoing complaints, though it withheld the full list from the public alert.
“These apps are not licensed by the Bank of Ghana and do not comply with privacy rules under the Data Protection Act,” the Authority stated.
Ghanaians are being urged to avoid these digital lenders entirely, with a stern warning that “anyone who uses them does so at their own risk” due to their unregulated nature.
To combat the spread of such cybercrime, the CSA has encouraged victims or witnesses of online harassment tied to loan apps to reach out through WhatsApp at 0501603111, by calling 292, or via email at report@csa.gov.gh.
The Authority concluded by reaffirming its commitment to cracking down on digital financial misconduct: “The CSA will continue to monitor and take appropriate steps to address cybercrime linked to digital financial services in the country.”
Below is the full statement.
