Beware of ‘rogue’ loan apps — Cyber Security Authority warns public
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has raised alarm over a growing number of complaints involving harassment, blackmail, and cyberbullying linked to unlicensed mobile loan applications operating in Ghana.
From January to May 2025, the CSA received 377 reports of abuse connected to these rogue digital lenders, a sharp increase compared to 228 complaints recorded in all of 2024.
According to the Authority, these unauthorized loan apps use aggressive tactics to recover debts, often violating data protection laws and consumer rights. Many operate outside the oversight of the Bank of Ghana and other financial regulators.
Users are frequently targeted with unsolicited loan offers, and when unable to repay, face threats and intimidation. Some victims report that private data—including photos, contacts, and messages—has been extracted and shared with third parties, family, or friends to coerce repayment.
“These apps have no legal backing and disregard consumer protection regulations. Using them exposes individuals to serious risks like data theft, harassment, and financial loss,” the CSA warned.
The Authority has identified 48 such “rogue loan apps” currently active in Ghana’s digital market. Notable names on the blacklist include Miniloan, Devtage Loan, Mix Loan, Ozzy Money-Cash, Plus Cash Arrow, Cash Arrow, FundsCredit, and Lever Credit, among others.
To protect users, the CSA urges the public to verify loan services’ legitimacy and carefully review app permissions before installation, especially those requesting access to contacts and media files.
In response to the rising threats, the CSA has launched a 24-hour cyber incident response platform where victims and concerned individuals can report suspicious activities.
Ghanaians are advised to avoid loan apps not regulated by the Bank of Ghana or approved financial institutions. The Authority is working with partners to remove these illegal apps and hold developers accountable. Victims or anyone needing assistance can contact the CSA via their official website or incident reporting hotlines.
