The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has sounded a serious warning as reports of cyberbullying linked to unregulated digital lending apps have surged sharply in Ghana this year. From January to May 2025, the Authority recorded 377 complaints, a significant increase compared to 228 cases in the same period last year.
This alarming rise is attributed to the aggressive and often illegal practices of numerous mobile loan apps that operate without oversight or adherence to consumer protection laws. These platforms frequently push unsolicited microloans to unsuspecting users and then resort to harassment tactics, including blackmail and threats, to enforce repayments.
Victims have reported distressing experiences such as private information—including photos and contacts—being leaked or weaponized to shame borrowers into paying. Many of these apps gain unauthorized access to users’ phone data, enabling them to coerce repayments through intimidation.
The CSA has identified 48 rogue lending apps currently active in Ghana, including names like Milloan, Devtage Loan, Plus Cash Arrow, Cash Arrow, FastyCredit, Lever Credit, and Upper Loan. These platforms operate outside the law and pose significant risks to consumers.
In response, the CSA is urging Ghanaians to exercise extreme caution when using digital lending services and to verify the legitimacy of any loan app before engagement. The Authority also encourages victims or those who encounter suspicious activities to report immediately via its 24-hour cyber incident response system.
“This trend highlights the urgent need for stricter regulation of digital lending platforms to protect vulnerable users from exploitation,” the CSA emphasized in its statement.
