News

The acting Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), Mr Divine Selase Agbeti, has cautioned Ghanaian youth, against choosing cybercrime as a shortcut to success, describing it as “criminality” that destroys lives and careers.

He issued the warning in a keynote address delivered at the 2026 Volta Youth Festival at the Ho Technical University on 7 March 2026. Mr Agbeti stressed that cybercrime must not be glamorised as it affects innocent victims.

Cybercrime is not smart work. Cybercrime is not innovation. Cybercrime is not entrepreneurship. Cybercrime is criminality! It destroys lives, reputations and futures. he cautioned

He disclosed that between January and December 2025, the CSA received 23,363 contacts from citizens nationwide, including 4,604 confirmed cybercrime and cybersecurity incidents, with online fraud – 1,799 cases – accounting for 39 per cent of all incidents.

The Director-General stated that a recent law enforcement operation in Vakpo led to the arrest of a three-member syndicate accused of impersonating senior public officials, including the Minister of Communications. He stressed that all cybercriminals will be identified, tracked, and prosecuted, and warned the youth that bad digital footprint could cost them education, jobs, travel opportunities and security clearances.

“A few cedis gained illegally can, in effect, cost you a lifetime of lost opportunities” he noted.

Mr. Agbeti further disclosed that a full-time regional office will soon be opened in Ho to enhance cybersecurity awareness and support in the Volta Region.

He also announced that the CSA will partner with regional authorities, local assemblies, the private sector and educational institutions to train and empower young people with legitimate digital skills.