Ghana Cyber Security Authority Reports Over GHS 600,000 Lost to Online Grocery Scams in First 10 Months of 2025

Introduction

In a stark alert for online shoppers in Ghana, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has revealed that Ghanaians lost more than GHS 600,000 to online grocery scams between January and October 2025. This figure stems from 266 officially recorded cases, highlighting a growing threat in the e-commerce landscape. As Black Friday approaches, the CSA issued a statement on November 28, 2025, warning of a potential surge in online grocery buying scams. This article breaks down the risks, common tactics used by fraudsters, and proven strategies to protect yourself during peak shopping seasons like Black Friday.

Online grocery scams in Ghana exploit the convenience of digital shopping, targeting everyday needs like food deliveries. Understanding these threats is essential for safe online grocery shopping, especially with the rise of platforms mimicking legitimate services.

Analysis

The CSA’s data underscores a troubling trend: online grocery scams accounted for significant financial losses in 2025. With 266 incidents in just ten months, the average loss per case exceeds GHS 2,255, though exact breakdowns are not specified in the report. This surge aligns with broader e-commerce growth in Ghana, where digital platforms have expanded access to groceries but also opened doors to cybercriminals.

Understanding the Scale of Online Grocery Scams in Ghana

The Cyber Security Authority Ghana monitors cyber threats nationwide, and these figures represent formally reported cases. Underreporting likely means actual losses are higher. Fraudsters focus on groceries because they are high-demand, low-suspicion items—victims often overlook red flags when seeking quick deals on essentials like rice, vegetables, or household staples.

Black Friday as a High-Risk Period

The CSA explicitly flags Black Friday as a peak time for scams. Global trends show scammers ramp up during sales events, and Ghana is no exception. The authority notes that excitement over discounts creates vulnerabilities, with fraudsters capitalizing on urgency.

Summary

The Cyber Security Authority Ghana reported over GHS 600,000 lost to online grocery scams from January to October 2025, based on 266 cases. Ahead of Black Friday, the CSA warns of increased fraud via brand impersonation, fake social media stores, and phishing. Key defenses include verifying websites, checking reviews, using reputable platforms, and opting for pay-after-delivery options. This summary equips shoppers with essentials for secure online grocery buying in Ghana.

Key Points

Practical Advice

To safeguard against online grocery scams in Ghana, follow these step-by-step, pedagogical guidelines from the Cyber Security Authority. These practices build a secure shopping routine.

Step 1: Verify Online Grocery Store Legitimacy

Always access stores through official websites or apps, not links from search results or ads. For example, if shopping for groceries on a platform like Jumia or a local service, type the URL directly. Check for HTTPS security and contact details matching official sources.

Step 2: Research Reviews and Ratings

Use trusted sites like Google Reviews or Trustpilot to gauge seller reputation. Legitimate online grocery services in Ghana, such as those partnered with major supermarkets, typically have consistent positive feedback. Ignore stores with few or overly glowing reviews.

Step 3: Stick to Reputable Platforms

Prioritize established e-commerce sites over unverified social media pages. In Ghana, platforms regulated or monitored by bodies like the CSA offer better protection for online grocery buying.

Step 4: Insist on Secure Payment Methods

Opt for cash-on-delivery (COD) or pay-after-inspection. This aligns with CSA recommendations, allowing you to refuse payment if items don’t match descriptions—crucial for perishable groceries.

Step 5: Monitor Accounts Post-Purchase

Regularly check bank statements and enable transaction alerts. Report suspicious activity immediately to your bank and the CSA hotline.

Points of Caution

Recognize these red flags to avoid online grocery scams Ghana-style:

• Unrealistically low prices, e.g., premium groceries at 50% off without explanation.
• Pressure tactics like “limited stock” or “sale ends soon.”
• Requests for advance payments via mobile money without delivery guarantees.
• Poor grammar, mismatched logos, or unofficial domains in brand impersonation scams.
• Phishing emails or links asking for login credentials or card info.

The CSA emphasizes: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Pause and verify before proceeding.

Comparison

Online grocery scams in Ghana mirror global patterns but are amplified by local factors like mobile money reliance. In 2025, Ghana’s 266 cases and GHS 600,000 losses compare to Nigeria’s higher volumes (thousands of cases annually per EFCC reports) due to larger population, but per capita, Ghana’s e-commerce fraud rate is rising similarly.

Vs. General E-Commerce Scams

Grocery-specific scams differ from fashion or electronics fraud by targeting impulse buys. Globally, FTC data shows food delivery scams up 20% post-pandemic; Ghana’s trend follows suit.

Black Friday Benchmarks

In the US, BBB reports millions lost yearly to holiday scams. Ghana’s CSA anticipates proportional increases, urging vigilance akin to international advisories from FTC or Europol.

Legal Implications

Under Ghana’s Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), online grocery scams qualify as cyber fraud offenses. Perpetrators face up to 25 years imprisonment and fines. Victims should report to the Cyber Security Authority Ghana via their portal or hotline (080010029), enabling investigations. The Electronic Transactions Act, 2008, further protects against phishing and impersonation. Prompt reporting aids recovery and prosecution, as CSA collaborates with police and financial institutions.

Conclusion

The Cyber Security Authority’s report of over GHS 600,000 lost to online grocery scams in 2025 serves as a wake-up call for Ghanaian shoppers. By mastering verification techniques, heeding cautions, and leveraging legal protections, you can enjoy safe online grocery shopping—even during Black Friday. Stay informed, shop smart, and report incidents to curb this menace. Empower yourself with knowledge from trusted sources like the CSA to protect your finances in Ghana’s digital economy.

FAQ

Sources

• Cyber Security Authority (CSA) Ghana Official Statement, November 28, 2025: “Warning on Online Grocery Scams Ahead of Black Friday.”
• Life Pulse Daily: “Cyber Security Authority Reports Over GHS 600,000 Lost to Online Grocery Scams,” published 2025-11-28.
• Ghana Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038).
• CSA Ghana Official Website: csa.gov.gh (reporting guidelines and statistics).

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