Young people searching for remote work are a favourite target for scammers. Ghana's Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has repeatedly warned the public about fake job offers spreading by SMS, WhatsApp, Telegram and Facebook, including fake adverts that copy the websites of real organisations. Learning the patterns protects your money, your documents and your accounts.
The most common tricks
- Pay to get the job. You are asked to pay for an application form, training, registration, a uniform, a laptop or a background check. The CSA's advice is clear: genuine employers do not charge any fees for applications, tests or training, and any payment request is a sign of fraud.
- Task scams. You are offered easy money for simple online tasks such as liking posts or rating products. Early tasks pay a little to build trust. Then you are asked to deposit money to unlock better tasks or withdraw your earnings, and once you pay, you are locked out.
- Fake cheques and overpayment. A "client" sends more money than agreed, or a cheque, and asks you to send the difference back or pay a supplier. The original payment later disappears, and you lose what you sent.
- Money mule offers. You are asked to receive money into your bank or mobile money account and forward it to someone else, for a commission. This can make you part of a crime, even if you did not know.
- Account and identity theft. You are asked for your Ghana Card number, photos of your ID, bank details, a verification code or your login, often "to set up payroll" before any real interview.