MTN urges cyber vigilance

By Elizabeth PUNSU, Kumasi

Senior Manager for Enterprise Information Security and Governance at MTN Ghana, Jacqueline Hanson Kotei, has issued a stark warning about the growing sophistication of cyber threats, calling for a collective effort to secure the nation’s digital future.

Speaking at a cybersecurity awareness forum for staff of MTN Ghana in Kumasi, Ms. Kotei emphasised that the escalating risk of online fraud and scams makes such interventions timely, critical and necessary for individuals and businesses alike.

“We are living our lives increasingly in the digital space. It has become more important than ever to protect ourselves, our businesses, our personal lives and proprietary information,” she said.

Outlining MTN Ghana’s two-part responsibility, Ms. Kotei detailed the company’s internal campaigns to educate employees on practical security measures. These include warnings against sharing Mobile Money (MoMo) PINs, the dangers of clicking suspicious links on platforms like WhatsApp, and the risks of oversharing personal information online.

“We advise people to be cyber alert, enable two-factor verification on WhatsApp, keep your devices updated to the latest security features, and be mindful of your digital footprint. It is our duty to share these simple tips,” she highlighted.

Beyond its internal walls, MTN is expanding its public education drive. Ms. Kotei revealed that the company is rolling out special interventions across the country, with a particular focus on secondary schools.

“Our young people are a key demographic targeted by these scams. We are working in both rural and urban areas to ensure they are educated about the dangers,” she explained.

Despite these efforts, Kotei acknowledged the scale of the challenge, noting the fast-paced nature of the digital landscape and the expanding “attack surface” presented by new devices.

She then urged everyone to become “ambassadors of cybersecurity” and reaffirming MTN’s compliance with Ghana’s Cybersecurity Act.

The forum, held under the theme ‘Securing Our Digital Future’, underscores the telecom giant’s commitment to leading the charge against cybercrime.

October has been declared as National Cyber Security Awareness Month where both public and private institutions – through symposia, conferences, fora, etc. – create awareness on the need to be cyber alert.

Early this month, His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama officially opened the National Cyber Security Awareness Month, with emphasis on the importance of public education, collaboration and vigilance in addressing the growing threat of cybercrime.

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