The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has warned the public about a growing wave of online scams involving fraudsters impersonating legitimate restaurants and food vendors. The Authority said criminals are manipulating business listings on platforms such as Google Search and Google Maps by changing contact details, creating duplicate profiles and using fake advertisements to deceive customers. The CSA recorded 112 reported cases between January and June 2026, up from 61 cases during the same period in 2025, while financial losses increased sharply from GH¢84,592 to GH¢296,083.68.
According to the CSA, victims who contact fraudulent numbers are often asked to pay for food orders through mobile money or fake online payment links. Once payment is made, the scammers cut communication without delivering the food. Some fake platforms also collect personal and financial information that could be used for unauthorised transactions. The Authority has urged customers to verify restaurant details through official websites, verified social media accounts or trusted food delivery platforms and to avoid unfamiliar payment links.
The CSA also advised restaurants and food vendors to verify their Google Business Profiles, clearly display official contact and payment details, and regularly monitor their online listings for unauthorised changes or duplicate profiles. Customers are encouraged to protect sensitive information such as mobile money PINs, OTPs and banking credentials, while businesses should report fraudulent listings to Google. The public is also advised to monitor their accounts and report suspicious transactions promptly to their financial service providers or mobile network operators.
Source : www.myjoyonline.com
