Technology News from Ghana

The latest technology news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Australia's Social Media Age Verification Flaws Exposed in New Compliance Study
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Australia's Social Media Age Verification Flaws Exposed in New Compliance Study

Australia’s ambitious legislative effort to ban teenagers under the age of 16 from social media platforms is facing significant implementation hurdles, according to a recent study released on January 15, 2026. Despite the mandate designed to shield minors from the potential harms of digital networking, major tech giants including Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube are reportedly failing to effectively verify the ages of their users. This revelation comes at a critical time as global regulators monitor Australia's pioneer approach to digital safety, suggesting that the "world-first" law may be toothless without more rigorous enforcement mechanisms and platform cooperation. The study, which involved a trial of over 1,000 Australian participants, revealed a startling gap between the law's requirements and its real-world application. According to the findings, none of the test accounts created during the post-implementation phase were prompted to provide any form of age verification or proof of identity. This failure persists even as the Australian government has doubled the fines for platforms that fail to comply with the new regulations. Critics argue that the current state of enforcement allows underage users to continue accessing restricted content with virtually no friction, undermining the very essence of the protective legislation intended to curb youth social media addiction and exposure to harmful content. Technological experts and child safety advocates are raising alarms over the lack of robust testing for circumvention methods. The trial suggests that current age-gating measures are easily bypassed, as the enforcement process lacks the "stress-testing" necessary to ensure young users cannot simply lie about their birth years. Experts indicate that without a shift toward more sophisticated verification technologies—such as biometric analysis or third-party digital identity checks—the gap in protecting young users will remain wide. As the Australian government grapples with these findings, the focus is expected to shift toward tighter oversight and perhaps even more stringent penalties to compel tech companies to prioritize compliance over user growth.

Dynamic Data Solutions and eSentire Partner to Bolster African Cybersecurity Resilience
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Dynamic Data Solutions and eSentire Partner to Bolster African Cybersecurity Resilience

Dynamic Data Solutions Limited (dds55), a prominent Ghanaian technology firm, has announced a strategic partnership with eSentire, a global leader in Managed Detection and Response (MDR), to significantly enhance cybersecurity resilience for organizations across Africa. This collaboration comes as African businesses face an escalating landscape of cyber threats, driven by rapid digital transformation and the increasing sophistication of international threat actors. By integrating eSentire’s global threat intelligence with dds55’s extensive local IT expertise, the partnership aims to provide a comprehensive defense mechanism tailored to the specific needs of the African market. The initiative is set to deliver enterprise-grade security solutions, including 24/7 monitoring and rapid incident response, which are crucial for maintaining operational integrity in today's digital economy. The partnership focuses on bridging the gap between local operational needs and global security standards. Through this alliance, dds55 and eSentire will offer businesses the ability to detect and neutralize threats in real-time, leveraging global insights to protect local assets. Leaders from both companies emphasized that this collaboration is a proactive response to the evolving regulatory landscape and the growing demand for robust digital infrastructure. This synergistic approach ensures that African enterprises can pursue growth and innovation with the assurance that their digital environments are protected by world-class security protocols. Beyond immediate threat mitigation, this partnership represents a long-term commitment to fostering a more secure and resilient digital ecosystem in Africa. As organizations continue to migrate to cloud-based services and expand their digital footprints, the need for specialized cybersecurity support becomes paramount. By localizing eSentire’s advanced MDR capabilities through dds55, the partnership empowers African businesses to mitigate risks effectively while adhering to compliance standards. This development is expected to bolster investor confidence and provide a stable foundation for the continent's burgeoning digital economy, ultimately contributing to sustainable technological advancement and economic stability across the region.

Yango Ride Strengthens Safety Framework with New Passenger Profile Badge Feature in Ghana
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Yango Ride Strengthens Safety Framework with New Passenger Profile Badge Feature in Ghana

Yango Ride, the international ride-hailing service under the Yango Group, has announced the launch of a new "passenger completed account badge" designed to foster greater trust and security within its digital ecosystem. This feature allows drivers to view essential verified details of a passenger once a ride request is accepted, marking a significant shift toward mutual transparency in the ride-hailing sector. By providing drivers with a clearer understanding of who they are picking up, the company aims to mitigate safety risks and streamline the interaction between service providers and users. The new badge serves as a credibility marker for passengers, displaying information such as their name, photo, and preferred payment method directly to the driver's interface upon accepting an order. Initial data and internal surveys conducted by Yango suggest that this visibility significantly boosts driver confidence, with a notable positive impact reported during late-night shifts when safety concerns are typically heightened. This move addresses a long-standing request from the driver community for better identification of passengers, paralleling the transparency passengers already enjoy regarding driver profiles and vehicle details. Tom Ofonime, the Country Manager for Yango Ride in Ghana, highlighted that the initiative is rooted in the belief that safety is a two-way street. He emphasized that building mutual trust between both parties is fundamental to providing a high-quality service and maintaining a healthy platform environment. This profile badge is not a standalone update but rather an extension of Yango's existing safety toolkit, which includes a range of in-app functionalities like SOS buttons, trip sharing, and real-time monitoring designed to protect both parties throughout the journey. As the ride-hailing market in Ghana continues to evolve, the introduction of such features reflects a growing industry trend toward data-driven security measures and user verification. By incentivizing passengers to complete their profiles and verify their identities, Yango is positioning itself as a safety-conscious platform in an increasingly competitive landscape. Moving forward, the success of this feature may set a new standard for other operators in the region, ultimately contributing to a more secure and reliable urban transportation network for Ghanaian commuters and drivers alike.

Cyber Security Authority Reports GH¢3.4 Million Lost to Online Investment Scams in Early 2026
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Cyber Security Authority Reports GH¢3.4 Million Lost to Online Investment Scams in Early 2026

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana has issued an urgent public alert following a sharp rise in fraudulent online investment schemes that have collectively cost victims more than GH¢3.4 million. According to official data released by the Authority, a total of 352 cases of online investment fraud were recorded in the first half of 2026, spanning the period from January to June. This troubling trend highlights a growing threat to the financial security of Ghanaians, who are increasingly being targeted by sophisticated digital predators operating across various social media and mobile platforms. Fraudsters typically lure unsuspecting victims by promising exceptionally high and unrealistic returns on investments, often advertising through popular social media channels. To build credibility and gain the trust of their targets, these scammers frequently adopt fake identities or misrepresent themselves as subsidiaries of well-known, reputable companies. One prominent example cited by the CSA is the misuse of the brand name 'Darazz.' Other fraudulent entities identified in the recent reports include names such as Daily Trade, Ghstore, KUKA, and Edollar. These criminals often facilitate their transactions through mobile money platforms, which allow for rapid fund transfers that can be difficult to recover once the scam is realized. In response to this escalating threat, the CSA is urging the public to exercise extreme caution when considering any online investment opportunities. The Authority emphasizes that individuals should strictly verify the legitimacy of any investment scheme through official regulatory channels and corporate offices before committing their funds. The public is advised to be skeptical of 'get-rich-quick' schemes and to remain vigilant against entities that lack a verifiable physical presence or use high-pressure tactics to solicit investments. To combat the spread of these digital crimes, the CSA has directed victims and concerned citizens to report any suspicious activities to its 24-hour Cybersecurity Incident Reporting Centre. By reporting these incidents, the public assists the Authority in tracking fraudulent networks and preventing further financial losses within the community. The CSA remains committed to strengthening Ghana's cybersecurity landscape, but stresses that public awareness and proactive verification remain the most critical lines of defense against online financial exploitation.

Cybersecurity Risks Rise as 69% of Users Turn to Public Wi-Fi for Connectivity
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Cybersecurity Risks Rise as 69% of Users Turn to Public Wi-Fi for Connectivity

In an era where the rising cost of living is forcing many to seek ways to save, free public Wi-Fi has become an indispensable utility for many. According to recent data, approximately 69% of users connect to these public networks on a weekly basis, drawn by the convenience of staying connected without consuming mobile data. However, cybersecurity experts are raising alarms that the price of this "free" service may be far higher than users realize, as public hotspots often lack the robust security protocols found in private home or office networks. The security vulnerabilities inherent in public Wi-Fi expose users to several sophisticated cyber threats. Among the most dangerous are "evil twin" attacks, where criminals set up a fraudulent Wi-Fi network that appears legitimate to trick users into connecting. Once a device is linked, hackers can launch Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks, allowing them to intercept sensitive information such as login credentials, bank details, and personal communications. Furthermore, cybercriminals frequently use these open connections to distribute malware or utilize captive portals—the login pages often seen in hotels or cafes—to harvest personal information for malicious purposes. While the allure of cost-free internet is strong, the potential for data breaches necessitates a more cautious approach to connectivity. Experts recommend that users take active protective measures, such as using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to encrypt their traffic and avoiding sensitive transactions like online banking while on public networks. As digital reliance continues to grow, understanding the trade-off between convenience and cybersecurity is essential for safeguarding personal data in an increasingly connected world.

Bank of Ghana Fintech Head Warns That Technology Cannot Stop Digital Fraud if Customers Surrender PINs
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Bank of Ghana Fintech Head Warns That Technology Cannot Stop Digital Fraud if Customers Surrender PINs

Elhanan Owureku Asare, the Head of Fintech and Innovation at the Bank of Ghana (BoG), has issued a stark warning regarding the limitations of technological interventions in the fight against digital fraud. Speaking ahead of the upcoming Digital Economy Forum, Asare emphasized that while robust cybersecurity systems can effectively thwart sophisticated hackers, they remain powerless against social engineering tactics where customers are manipulated into voluntarily surrendering their Personal Identification Numbers (PINs). This intervention comes at a critical time as the central bank reports a steady increase in fraud incidents within the nation’s rapidly expanding digital payment ecosystem. The scale of the challenge is reflected in recent data from the Bank of Ghana, which shows a rise in reported fraud cases from 15,865 in 2023 to 16,733 in 2024. Despite significant institutional investments in cybersecurity and fraud detection tools, the human element remains the most significant vulnerability in the security chain. Asare pointed out that fraudsters are increasingly shifting their focus away from technical breaches of banking infrastructure toward the psychological manipulation of individual users. These bad actors often pose as service providers or bank officials to trick unsuspecting Ghanaians into revealing sensitive credentials, leading to significant financial losses across the digital economy. Addressing these vulnerabilities requires a delicate balance between enhancing security measures and maintaining user convenience. According to Asare, overly complex security protocols can hinder the adoption of digital payments, while lax measures invite exploitation. The Bank of Ghana is therefore advocating for a multi-faceted approach that combines advanced technological safeguards with intensive public awareness campaigns. By educating the public on how to recognize and report suspicious activity, the central bank aims to build a more resilient digital economy that prioritizes consumer protection without sacrificing the efficiency of modern financial transactions. The upcoming Digital Economy Forum will serve as a vital platform for stakeholders to deliberate on whether Ghana’s current regulatory framework is sufficient to keep pace with the swift evolution of digital finance. As the country moves toward a more digitized economic landscape, the BoG’s focus remains on fostering public trust. The success of these efforts will ultimately depend on a collaborative effort between regulators, fintech providers, and consumers to ensure that the benefits of financial technology are not undermined by the growing sophistication of digital criminals.

The Gambia Launches National ID System in Partnership with Margins ID Group; President Barrow Receives First GAM ID
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The Gambia Launches National ID System in Partnership with Margins ID Group; President Barrow Receives First GAM ID

The Republic of The Gambia has officially launched its first-ever unified National Identity Management System (GAM ID), marking a transformative step in the nation’s digital infrastructure. Developed through a strategic Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Ghana’s Margins ID Group, the initiative aims to establish a secure and trusted identity platform for all Gambian citizens. The project reached a historic milestone during its inauguration when President Adama Barrow was presented with the very first GAM ID card, signaling the commencement of a new era of digital governance and national security in the West African nation. The GAM ID system is built upon a robust digital architecture that includes a state-of-the-art National Data Centre dedicated to biometric enrollment and data management. By maintaining these facilities locally, The Gambia ensures data sovereignty while providing a foundation for enhanced economic development. Following a successful pilot phase conducted between July 6 and July 29, 2026, the government has scheduled a nationwide registration exercise to begin on August 4, 2026. This system is designed to streamline public services and provide a high level of security against identity fraud, ensuring that every citizen has a verifiable digital persona. As the rollout progresses, the GAM ID will become increasingly central to daily life and administrative processes in The Gambia. Authorities have already indicated that the new identification card will soon become a mandatory requirement for obtaining essential documents, such as driver’s licenses. This integration highlights the government's intent to centralize its digital landscape, making the GAM ID the primary credential for accessing both public and private sector services. This move is expected to improve the efficiency of government operations and foster a more inclusive digital economy. The collaboration between the Gambian government and the Ghanaian-owned Margins ID Group serves as a significant example of intra-African cooperation in the technology sector. By leveraging the expertise of a regional technology firm, the project underscores the growing capacity of African companies to deliver complex, high-security digital solutions that support national independence. As The Gambia moves forward with its digital agenda, the GAM ID stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and securing its future in the global digital age.

Claire Parfitt A 14-year-old girl stands beside Helen Sharman's space suit. The teenager is wearing a grey woollen jumper. The space suit is white.
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Claire Parfitt: From Cleaning Space Toilets to Leading European Space Agency Mars Exploration Teams

Claire Parfitt, a scientist originally from Nottingham, has traversed a remarkable career path from a 14-year-old intern cleaning a space toilet to a prominent leader in Mars exploration at the European Space Agency (ESA). Now 42, Parfitt is based at the European Space Research and Technology Centre in the Netherlands, where she oversees teams dedicated to uncovering the secrets of the Red Planet. Her journey, which she describes as a "dream come true," serves as a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the impact of dedicated mentorship in shaping the next generation of space pioneers. Parfitt’s entry into the space industry began with a formative work experience placement at the National Space Science Centre in Leicester. During this time, she performed unconventional tasks, such as cleaning a space toilet and unpacking significant artifacts, including a flight suit worn by Helen Sharman, the first British astronaut. This early immersion, coupled with the steadfast support of her science teachers, fueled her academic ambitions. She went on to earn a degree in physics followed by a PhD in spacecraft power systems engineering, providing the technical foundation necessary for her subsequent contributions to high-stakes international space missions. Throughout her career at the ESA, Parfitt has been instrumental in several high-profile projects, most notably the ExoMars Rosalind Franklin rover and the SMILE (Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer) mission. Since moving to the Netherlands in 2019, she has transitioned into a leadership role, guiding the strategic planning for future Mars exploration. Her work involves balancing the technical complexities of spacecraft engineering with the broader scientific goals of understanding Mars' geological and biological history. Looking ahead, Parfitt is focused on the highly anticipated 2028 launch of the Rosalind Franklin rover, a mission she believes will be a critical stepping stone toward future human exploration of Mars. She emphasizes the necessity of rigorous scientific research and the preservation of the Martian environment to ensure that future missions yield the most accurate data possible. As she prepares for these upcoming milestones, Parfitt continues to advocate for the importance of space science, viewing the exploration of Mars as a vital endeavor for the advancement of human knowledge.

Cybersecurity Experts Flag Severe Risks as 69% of Users Rely on Free Public Wi-Fi Weekly
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Cybersecurity Experts Flag Severe Risks as 69% of Users Rely on Free Public Wi-Fi Weekly

In an era of rising living costs, the availability of free public Wi-Fi has become a vital utility for many, with approximately 69% of users now accessing these networks on a weekly basis. However, cybersecurity experts are raising alarms that the convenience of "free" internet often comes with a hidden and potentially devastating price. While these hotspots offer immediate connectivity in cafes, airports, and public squares, they simultaneously expose users to sophisticated cyber threats that can compromise personal data and financial security. The primary dangers associated with public networks include "evil twin" attacks and Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) vulnerabilities. In an "evil twin" scenario, cybercriminals set up a fraudulent Wi-Fi hotspot with a name identical to a legitimate one, tricking users into connecting directly to the attacker's device. Once connected, every piece of transmitted data—from passwords to private messages—can be intercepted. Similarly, MITM attacks allow hackers to position themselves between the user and the connection point, enabling them to alter communication or distribute malicious software across the network. Furthermore, the seemingly harmless "captive portals"—the login pages that require users to enter an email or phone number to access the internet—are frequently exploited for data harvesting. Cybercriminals can use these portals to collect sensitive personal information or trick users into downloading malware disguised as a system update. Experts emphasize that the lack of encryption on many public networks makes it significantly easier for bad actors to snoop on unencrypted traffic, turning a quick web search into a potential entry point for identity theft. To navigate these digital risks, users are urged to adopt stringent protective measures. Security professionals recommend using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to encrypt data traffic and advise against performing sensitive activities, such as online banking or shopping, while on public networks. As public Wi-Fi becomes an even more integrated part of daily life, maintaining a high level of digital hygiene and awareness is essential to ensuring that "free" access does not lead to a costly security breach.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Calls for Global AI Regulations to Protect Children and Ensure Equity
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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres Calls for Global AI Regulations to Protect Children and Ensure Equity

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a stern warning that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly outpacing existing regulatory frameworks, creating urgent risks that demand immediate global intervention. Speaking at the first government-level global dialogue on AI governance in Geneva, Guterres emphasized that without harmonized international rules, the technology poses profound threats to societal stability and individual safety. He specifically highlighted the vulnerability of children, noting that current AI systems are often deployed without the rigorous vetting necessary to ensure they do not cause psychological or developmental harm to younger generations. Central to the Secretary-General’s proposal is the introduction of an AI Child Safety Pledge. This initiative seeks to compel technology developers to ensure their systems are demonstrably safe before they are made accessible to children. Guterres advocated for a regulatory approach mirrored after medical safety protocols, where technologies undergo extensive testing and validation before public release. By treating AI safety with the same gravity as healthcare, the U.N. aims to prevent the "move fast and break things" mentality from compromising the wellbeing of the world's youth, who are increasingly interacting with AI-driven educational and social tools. Beyond safety concerns, the Secretary-General raised alarms regarding the geopolitical and economic implications of AI’s current development trajectory. He pointed out that the vast majority of AI breakthroughs and infrastructure are concentrated within a handful of powerful corporations and a few wealthy nations. This concentration of power threatens to leave developing countries, including many across the African continent, at a severe disadvantage. Guterres argued that without intentional efforts to promote equitable participation, the digital divide will widen, further marginalizing nations that lack the resources to compete in the high-stakes global AI race. To address these multifaceted challenges, the Geneva meeting focused on an independent report from a U.N.-backed panel of experts. This report is expected to serve as a blueprint for future international cooperation, outlining strategies to democratize AI governance and foster a more inclusive technological landscape. As the international community grapples with these complexities, the U.N. remains steadfast in its call for a coordinated response that balances innovation with human rights, ensuring that the benefits of artificial intelligence are shared globally while its most dangerous outcomes are mitigated through collective action.

Bank of Ghana Fintech Head Warns Technical Security Cannot Prevent Fraud Caused by Customer PIN Disclosure
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Bank of Ghana Fintech Head Warns Technical Security Cannot Prevent Fraud Caused by Customer PIN Disclosure

Elhanan Owureku Asare, the Head of Fintech and Innovation at the Bank of Ghana (BoG), has cautioned that while cybersecurity technology is effective against hackers, it cannot protect customers who fall victim to social engineering and voluntarily surrender their PINs. Speaking ahead of the upcoming Digital Economy Forum, Asare highlighted the persistent challenge of human vulnerability within Ghana's rapidly evolving digital payment ecosystem. He emphasized that even the most sophisticated technical safeguards are rendered ineffective when users are manipulated into disclosing sensitive information, marking a critical gap in the nation's digital defense strategy. The BoG official revealed a worrying trend in digital fraud statistics, noting that reported incidents increased from 15,865 in 2023 to 16,733 in 2024. These incidents have resulted in significant financial losses, indicating that fraudsters are shifting their focus from attempting to bypass technical barriers to exploiting individual psychology. This shift underscores the reality that technical investment alone is insufficient; instead, consumer education has become a mandatory pillar of security to prevent the unauthorized transfer of funds. Looking forward, the Digital Economy Forum will serve as a platform to evaluate whether Ghana's current regulatory framework can keep pace with the growth of digital finance. Asare emphasized the delicate balance required between implementing enhanced security measures and maintaining user convenience to preserve public trust. He concluded that as the digital economy expands, the collaboration between regulators, financial institutions, and informed customers will be the only way to safeguard the financial system from increasingly sophisticated social engineering tactics.

President Adama Barrow Receives First GAM ID as The Gambia Launches National Identity System via Ghana's Margins ID Group
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President Adama Barrow Receives First GAM ID as The Gambia Launches National Identity System via Ghana's Margins ID Group

The Gambia has officially entered a new era of digital governance with the launch of its first-ever unified National Identity Management System, known as GAM ID. This landmark project, developed through a strategic Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with Ghana’s Margins ID Group, represents a significant step forward in the nation’s digital infrastructure. President Adama Barrow became the inaugural recipient of the GAM ID card during a ceremony that highlighted the system’s role in providing every Gambian with a secure and trusted identity. This initiative is designed to enhance national security, improve the efficiency of government services, and drive broader economic development by creating a reliable digital foundation for the population. The technical backbone of the GAM ID system is a state-of-the-art National Data Centre dedicated to biometric enrollment and management. This facility ensures data sovereignty, a critical aspect of national security that keeps the sensitive information of Gambian citizens within the country’s control. Following a successful pilot phase that took place from July 6 to July 29, 2026, the government is set to begin nationwide registration on August 4, 2026. The system’s biometric capabilities are intended to eliminate identity duplication and fraud, providing a "single source of truth" for identity verification across various public and private sectors. In the coming months, the GAM ID will become an essential component of daily life in The Gambia, with the government announcing that it will soon be mandatory for obtaining a driver’s license and other vital public services. This project not only underscores The Gambia's commitment to modernization but also showcases the growing expertise of African technology firms like Margins ID Group. By leveraging regional talent and local innovation, the partnership demonstrates a sustainable model for achieving digital independence across the continent. This transition to a unified identity system is expected to pave the way for future digital initiatives, including e-government services and enhanced financial inclusion.