Ghana Scams: Tourist, Online & Investment Fraud Guide
Common scams in Ghana including advance-fee fraud, romance schemes, and online investment fraud, with official reporting channels.
Emergency number: 191 (police, toll-free), 18555 (Vodafone/MTN) — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Ghana has long been associated with advance-fee ('419') fraud, but the landscape has evolved to include sophisticated romance scams, fake investment platforms, and online shopping fraud affecting both local residents and people abroad. The Ghana Police Service Cyber Crime Unit and the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) are the primary reporting bodies. Tourists in Accra and other cities may encounter overcharging guides, fake cultural experiences, and accommodation fraud.
Common scams
- Advance-fee and 'inheritance' fraud via email and social media
- Romance scams targeting people overseas
- Online investment and crypto fraud
- Fake online shopping and non-delivery
Tourist-specific scams
- Overcharging taxi drivers and unofficial guides
- Fake charity and orphanage scams targeting volunteers
- Counterfeit craft and souvenir sellers
Online shopping scams
- Fake online shops and classified ad fraud
- Phishing messages impersonating Ghanaian banks (GCB, Ecobank)
- Mobile money (MoMo) fraud via SIM swap or social engineering
Job scams
- Fake overseas job offers requiring upfront visa or processing fees
- Fraudulent remote work schemes
Romance scams
- Long-term social media relationships leading to money requests
- Fake military or professional personas requesting emergency funds
Investment scams
- Ponzi and pyramid schemes promoted via WhatsApp groups
- Fake gold export deals requiring advance payments
How to report a scam here
- Contact your bank or mobile money provider immediately if money was transferred
- Report cybercrime to the Ghana Police Service Cyber Crime Unit at police.gov.gh
- Report to the Cyber Security Authority via the CSA app, call/SMS 292, or WhatsApp 0501603111
- For emergencies call Ghana Police on 191 (toll-free)
Local reporting & protection links
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Bank & payment guidance
For mobile money fraud, contact your provider (MTN, Vodafone, AirtelTigo) immediately and report to the Cyber Security Authority at csa.gov.gh. For bank fraud, contact your bank's official hotline.
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot all messages, profiles, websites and payment pages
- Save transaction references, account numbers and crypto wallet addresses
- Keep emails with full headers where possible
- Note dates, times, names and phone numbers used
Frequently asked questions
What is the CSA in Ghana?
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) is Ghana's official government body responsible for cybersecurity. It receives cybercrime reports via the CSA app, call/SMS to 292, WhatsApp at 0501603111, or email at [email protected].
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance