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The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has raised alarm over a growing wave of online scams involving the impersonation of well-known brands and service providers on Google Maps and Google Search.
According to the Authority, cybercriminals are creating fraudulent business profiles and manipulating search results to deceive unsuspecting members of the public. The targeted entities include food chains such as Pizza Hut, Pizzaman/Chickenman, Papaye, and Burger King; electronics giant Hisense; beverage company Bel Aqua; as well as banks, airlines, hotels, courier services, and even government agencies.
In a statement issued on Friday, August 29, the CSA explained that criminals alter or create fake listings of these businesses, inserting fraudulent phone numbers, emails, and websites.
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“When users search for a company’s details online, they are often presented with the fraudulent contact information at the top of Google results,” the Authority stated.
Once victims dial these numbers, scammers pose as customer service representatives, tricking them into divulging sensitive information such as one-time passwords (OTPs) and PINs. These details are then used to withdraw funds, authorise fraudulent transactions, or collect payments for undelivered goods and services.
The CSA urged Ghanaians to exercise caution when relying on Google Search or Maps for contact details. It recommended that users:
- Cross-check phone numbers and emails from official company websites.
- Treat search results, including those marked as paid “Ads”, with caution since fraudulent listings can appear above genuine ones.
- Never share confidential details such as PINs or OTPs with strangers online.
The Authority encouraged the public to report suspicious or fake listings directly to Google and also notify the CSA to enable swift intervention.
The CSA further advised businesses and institutions to actively monitor their digital presence to prevent impersonation. It recommended regular searches for their brands online to quickly detect fraudulent profiles and the publication of verified contact details on official platforms.
“Where possible, organisations should consider acquiring toll-free numbers or dedicated ranges to build trust with their customers,” the Authority added.
The CSA reminded the public that it operates a 24-hour incident reporting centre where suspected cybercrimes can be reported through:
- Call/Text: 292
- WhatsApp: 0501603111
- Email: report@csa.gov.gh
The Authority stressed that digital vigilance remains critical in protecting individuals and businesses from cybercriminals exploiting online platforms.
Read he full report here: PUBLIC-ALERT-Brand-Impersonation-Scams-Using-Google-Maps-and-Searches
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