CSA blacklists 40 loan apps for harassment and data abuse

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a warning to the public. This follows a rise in cyberbullying, harassment, and blackmail linked to unlicensed mobile loan apps in Ghana.

From January to May 2025, the CSA received 377 complaints about these apps. This is a significant increase from 228 cases reported in all of 2024.

The CSA blames aggressive recovery methods used by unauthorized loan apps. These platforms often ignore data protection regulations and consumer rights.

Many operate outside Ghana’s legal frameworks. They are not supervised by the Bank of Ghana or other financial authorities.

Users often receive unsolicited loans. If they cannot repay on time, the apps resort to harassment.

Victims report threats of defamation, blackmail, and intimidation. Some have had private information shared with third parties as coercion.

“These apps lack legal backing and disregard consumer protection laws,” said the CSA. “Using them exposes users to risks like data breaches and financial loss.”

The CSA has identified 48 rogue loan apps still active in Ghana. Some include Miniloan, Devtage Loan, Mix Loan, Ozzy Money-Cash, and many others.

The CSA advises users to verify any loan service's legitimacy before engaging with it. Users should also read app permissions carefully before installation.

To protect the public, the CSA has activated a 24-hour cyber incident response platform. Victims or concerned users can report suspicious digital activity through this platform.

Ghanaians are urged to avoid unregulated loan apps not approved by the Bank of Ghana. The CSA is working with relevant institutions to remove these apps and hold developers accountable.

For support or to report abuse, users can contact the CSA’s incident reporting lines or visit their official website.