Val’s day scam: The Cyber Security Agency (CSA) warns ahead of Valentine’s day

Considering that valentine’s day is a day people show their affection for others by sending gifts or items with messages of love.

Some unscrupulous people or malicious cyber actors would often take advantage of the day to defraud unsuspecting victims through various schemes.

The Cyber Security Authority is, by this alert, reminding the public to exercise caution and due diligence in their online activities.

In this article, we will outline five major Valentine’s day scams you need to look out for so you don’t fall victim.

5 Types of Val’s day scams Ghana

Romance scams occur when a criminal adopts a fake online identity to gain a victim’s affection and trust. Here are some forms of Val’s scams you should be aware of.

Romance scams

Malicious actors create fake online profiles to deceive victims into believing they are engaging in a trusting relationship. They use the relationship to persuade the victims to send money, provide personal and financial information, or purchase items for them.

Shopping Fraud

Malicious actors create fake websites or online shops or impersonate existing businesses on social media pages, offering heavily discounted packages and items. Victims are enticed to send money for these deals but never receive promised packages/items.

Phishing Scams

Malicious actors send unsolicited emails or messages claiming to be from a romantic partner or from a company offering Valentine’s Day Deals. These messages contain links or attachments that, when clicked, install malicious software(malware) or steal personal information.

Lottery and Prize Scams

Malicious actors contact victims and claim they have won a prize or lottery for valentine’s Day gift but need to pay a fee or provide personal information to claim the prize.

Charity Scams

Malicious actors may contact victims and claim to be a charity organization. They may as for donations for Valentine’s Day gifts for needy children and other related causes.

What are you expected to do?

• Be wary of unsolicited messages or emails claiming to be from a romantic partner.
• Be cautious of “too good to be true” deals on valentine’s day packages or gifts.
• Do not share personal information such as your Ghana card number, credit card information, or bank account details with anyone, especially if you do not know them well.
• Use a reputable online marketplace or retailer when purchasing Valentine’s Day gifts. Look for reviews and customer feedback before making online purchases.

The CSA has a 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Point of Contact(PoC) for reporting cybercrimes and for seeking guidance and assistance on online activities. Call or Text – 292, Whatsapp – 050 160 3111, Email – report@csa.gov.gh

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