Victims of restaurant and food vendor impersonation scams lost GHS 296,083.68 during the first half of 2026. This figure represents a sharp increase of over 250% compared to the GHS 84,592 lost in the same period of 2025. The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has expressed significant concern over this emerging form of cybercrime.
The surge in financial losses is directly linked to a rise in reported cases. The number of incidents increased from 61 in the first six months of 2025 to 112 during the corresponding period in 2026. Cybercriminals are exploiting online platforms like Google Search and Google Maps to target unsuspecting customers. They manipulate business listings by using features such as "suggest an edit," claiming unverified profiles, or creating duplicate listings with fake contact numbers.
This trend highlights a growing vulnerability within Ghana's digital economy, where increasing reliance on online services for daily transactions creates new avenues for fraud. The manipulation of search engine results and business directories underscores the need for robust digital literacy among consumers and proactive monitoring by businesses. This type of scam contributes to broader concerns about cybercrime's impact on consumer trust and the overall digital financial ecosystem in Ghana.
The Cyber Security Authority stated that fraudsters often purchase sponsored advertisements to ensure their fraudulent contact details appear prominently in online search results. Customers unknowingly contact these fake businesses, place food orders, and are then directed to make payments through mobile money or fraudulent online payment links. After receiving payment, the scammers cease communication, and the ordered food is never delivered.
The implications of these scams extend beyond immediate financial loss. Some fake payment platforms also request sensitive information, including customers’ names, delivery addresses, and mobile money details. This data can then be used to carry out further unauthorised financial transactions, posing a greater risk to personal security. The CSA has advised the public to verify restaurant contact details through official websites or trusted food delivery platforms before placing orders. They also urged customers to avoid unfamiliar payment links and never disclose mobile money PINs or one-time passwords (OTPs).
For businesses, the CSA recommends claiming and verifying their Google Business Profiles. Restaurants and food vendors should regularly monitor their online listings and promptly report any fraudulent profiles or unauthorised changes. This proactive approach is crucial for protecting their brand reputation and preventing their customers from falling victim to these schemes. The public can report suspicious online activities or cybercrime incidents to the CSA's 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Point of Contact for assistance.