The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has cautioned jobseekers against a growing recruitment scam involving fake websites impersonating legitimate government agencies and other reputable institutions.
The Authority said fraudsters were using text messages and social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp and Telegram, to circulate fake job advertisements and deceive unsuspecting applicants.
In a notice issued on Friday, September 25, the CSA disclosed that scammers were creating fraudulent websites that closely resemble those of legitimate institutions to steal applicants’ personal and sensitive information through phishing attacks.
According to the Authority, the fraudsters also impersonate recruiters, senior officials and representatives of reputable institutions to advertise attractive, high-paying jobs, particularly in the security sector.
The CSA cited a circulating online advertisement falsely offering recruitment opportunities for a foreign security and drone operation allegedly linked to the Ghana-Burkina Faso border.
It also highlighted recent fraudulent messages claiming that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) was charging applicants fees to secure employment.
“One example is a circulating online post falsely claiming to offer recruitment for a foreign security and drone operation allegedly linked to the Ghana-Burkina Faso border area.
“Other recent cases involved fraudulent recruitment messages claiming that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is charging members of the public fees to secure employment,” the CSA said.
The Authority urged jobseekers to exercise caution when responding to unsolicited job offers, particularly those promising unusually high salaries or positions in the security, military and specialised technical sectors.
It advised applicants to verify recruitment announcements directly with the relevant institutions before sharing personal information, identification documents or financial details.
The CSA further identified poor grammar, spelling mistakes and unprofessional communication as potential indicators of fraudulent job advertisements.
It also warned the public against sharing unverified security-related information, noting that such claims could trigger unnecessary fear and confusion.
The Authority encouraged individuals to report suspected cyber incidents and suspicious online activities to the CSA or the Cybercrime Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service.