Ghanaians lost almost GH¢300,000 to online restaurant impersonation scams during the first half of 2026, prompting the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) to warn the public against relying on unverified contact details found through online searches.
According to a new alert issued by the Authority, victims lost GH¢296,083.68 between January and June 2026, a sharp increase from GH¢84,592 recorded during the same period in 2025. Reported cases also rose significantly from 61 to 112.
The CSA said the surge is being driven by cyber criminals who manipulate Google business listings to impersonate legitimate restaurants and food vendors.
The fraudsters reportedly alter business contact information on Google Search, Google Maps and other online platforms by exploiting Google’s “Suggest an edit” feature, claiming unverified business profiles or creating duplicate listings. In some instances, they also pay for sponsored advertisements to ensure fake contact details appear at the top of search results.
Customers who unknowingly use the fraudulent phone numbers are encouraged to place food orders and make advance payments through mobile money or fake payment links. After payment is received, the scammers cut off communication and no food is delivered.
The Authority noted that some victims are also tricked into entering sensitive personal and banking information on fake payment pages, exposing them to additional financial fraud.
In response to the growing threat, the CSA has advised consumers to confirm restaurant contact details through official websites, verified social media accounts or trusted food delivery platforms before placing orders.
It also cautioned the public against sharing mobile money PINs, one-time passwords or banking credentials with anyone and urged customers to avoid making payments through unfamiliar or suspicious links.
The Authority further called on restaurants and other businesses to protect themselves by verifying their Google Business Profiles, monitoring their online listings for unauthorised changes and prominently displaying their official contact information to help customers identify authentic channels.
