The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued an urgent public alert following a sharp rise in fake social media accounts impersonating the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) and senior military officers.
According to the Authority, eighty-six (86) fraudulent accounts have been detected in just one week, coinciding with the start of the 2025 GAF enlistment and recruitment exercise on October 1, 2025.
The CSA confirmed that these fake accounts are being used to defraud unsuspecting job seekers through elaborate online scams posing as legitimate recruitment advertisements.
How the Fraud Works
The CSA detailed how these cybercriminals operate, explaining that they typically create fake social media profiles using official GAF logos and images of real military personnel.
These profiles then post convincing recruitment adverts claiming to offer protocol placements or fast-track enlistment into the Ghana Armed Forces.
Once potential victims engage, they are directed to make payments for supposed application forms, medical exams, background checks, uniforms, or training materials.
In some instances, the deception goes further — victims receive fake selection messages and are told to submit scanned copies of ID cards or certificates, which are then used for identity theft. Others are even instructed to report to non-existent training centres, discovering too late that they have been scammed.
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CSA’s Response
The CSA says it is actively working with major social media platforms to take down the identified fake accounts and block related fraudulent pages.
In its public advisory, the Authority warned that no legitimate security agency in Ghana charges fees for recruitment and that any payment request is a clear indicator of fraud.
It further urged the public to verify recruitment information only through official institutional websites — specifically pointing to the GAF’s verified recruitment portal: https://apply.mil.gh.
Public Safety Advisory
The CSA listed the following key guidelines for citizens:
- 🚫 Ignore all online advertisements claiming to offer protocol recruitment into the GAF.
- 🔗 Do not click suspicious recruitment links or respond to unsolicited messages.
- 💳 Never pay for recruitment forms, exams, or training — real employers don’t charge fees.
- 🪪 Avoid sharing ID cards, passports, or certificates with unknown contacts.
- ⚠️ Be skeptical of job offers promising instant employment or guaranteed placement after payment.
Reporting Channels
The CSA has called on the public to report fake profiles and fraudulent websites immediately for swift action.
The Authority operates a 24-hour Cybersecurity/Cybercrime Incident Reporting Point of Contact (PoC):
📞 Call/Text: 292
💬 WhatsApp: 0501603111
📧 Email: report@csa.gov.gh
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens from digital threats and urged extra vigilance during the ongoing GAF recruitment period.
