Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has launched the annual National Cyber Security Awareness Month, (NCSAM), a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about cybersecurity and promoting best practices for online safety.
Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako speaking at the Ministry of Information’s ‘Meet The Press’ series in Accra yesterday said this year’s celebration in October themed “Promoting a culture of Digital Safety” will highlight the importance of cultivating a collective mindset and behaviour that values and promotes responsible online practices, cybersecurity awareness, and the protection of personal information.
He also indicated that despite the successes achieved as a country on internet penetration which has increased exponentially from 2.31 million in 2012 to 17 million users in 2022 representing 53% of the population, the public should be cyber security conscious given the rate at which criminals are always ahead of users.
He stated that the Cybersecurity and Cybercrime Incident Reporting Points of Contact (PoC), provide an avenue for reporting cyber related incidents has made significant strides since it was launched in October 2019 to July, 2023.
“A total of 41,285 contacts was made with the Cyber Security Authority, 3,584 representing 9% of the contacts made were categorised as incidents while 37,559 were direct advisories given to citizens,” he added.
Dr. Antwi-Boasiako stated that the reporting incidents included online fraud representing 45% such as online shopping fraud, job recruitment fraud, advance fee fraud, romance scam, and investment fraud.
Others are online blackmail 13%, unathorised access 10%, account takeover, phishing, cyber bullying 9% fake loan apps among others.
He asked stakeholders not to hesitate to contact the CSA who are readily available to offer assistance towards awareness creation on cyber security in all areas of work especially in the month of October which is dedicated to awareness creation.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah