The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has announced a significant increase in online blackmail and sextortion cases.

In a public alert issued today, Wednesday, 31 July 2024, the CSA revealed that, following a March 2024 alert that reported a 254 per cent year-on-year increase in such cases for the first two months of the year, an additional 141 reports were filed between March and June.

In total, 226 cases have been recorded this year, resulting in a loss of GHS112,209.

The CSA outlined the tactics employed by threat actors including Social Media Engagement, Intimate Relationships, Unsolicited Video Calls, Unauthorised Access, Ransom Threats.

It, therefore, made some recommendations in protection against these threats and gave the following advice.

“Caution in Online Relationships: Be wary of quickly progressing online relationships, especially those leading to requests for intimate content. Do not share such content; Friend Requests: Avoid accepting online friend requests from unknown individuals; Video Calls: Be cautious of video calls from unknown people on social media platforms; Strong Passwords: Use strong passwords to protect sensitive data and only use reputable mobile device repair services; No Nude Content: Avoid capturing or storing nude images or videos of yourself on your devices and Unsolicited Messages: Be cautious of unsolicited messages or offers, especially those promising money or business opportunities.

The CSA emphasised the importance of vigilance and caution in online interactions to prevent falling victim to these malicious schemes.