INTERPOL: Ghanaians Lost $1.3 Million to MoMo Fraud in Just Three Months

 

ACCRA, Ghana — Ghanaians lost an estimated $1.3 million to mobile money (MoMo) fraud during the first quarter of 2025, according to the INTERPOL African Cyberthreat Assessment Report 2026.

The report identifies Ghana as one of the African countries experiencing a growing wave of cyber-enabled financial crime, with fraudsters increasingly exploiting digital payment platforms to steal money from unsuspecting users.

According to INTERPOL, mobile money fraud has become the most widespread online scam across Africa. A survey conducted among its member countries found that 97% identified MoMo fraud as a major cybercrime threat.

Criminals are using a variety of tactics to target victims, including phishing messages, fake promotions, SIM-swap attacks, and social engineering schemes designed to gain access to mobile wallets and personal financial information.

"Mobile money fraud has emerged as the most prevalent online scam reported by member countries," the report stated.

INTERPOL warned that the rapid growth of digital financial services has created new opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit users who rely on mobile money for everyday transactions.

The report also highlighted the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in online scams. Fraudsters are now deploying AI-generated messages, voice cloning technology, and other advanced techniques to make fraudulent communications appear genuine. These methods are making scams more convincing and increasingly difficult for users to detect.

Ghana is not alone in facing the challenge. The report points to Kenya as another country significantly affected by mobile money fraud. Authorities there reportedly uncovered more than 123,000 fraudulent SIM cards linked to SIM-swap scams in 2025. These scams enabled criminals to intercept one-time passwords, hijack customer accounts, and carry out unauthorised transactions.

To combat the growing threat, INTERPOL is urging stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, telecommunications companies, and cybersecurity experts. The organisation also called for increased public education campaigns and stronger cybersecurity measures to better protect users of digital financial services.

How to Protect Yourself from MoMo Fraud

Cybersecurity experts recommend the following steps to reduce the risk of becoming a victim:

• Never share your Mobile Money PIN or one-time password (OTP) with anyone.
• Ignore unsolicited calls, text messages, or links requesting personal or financial information.
• Always verify promotions and offers directly with your mobile network operator.
• Enable available security features on your mobile money account.
• Report suspicious transactions immediately to your service provider and the appropriate authorities.

As mobile money continues to play a critical role in Ghana's digital economy, experts say public awareness, stronger security systems, and cooperation among key stakeholders will be essential in reducing fraud and protecting consumers.

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