NaTCA Launches Cyber Shield Campaign as Sierra Leone Battles Rising Online Fraud Threats

The National Communications Authority (NaTCA) has intensified its nationwide consumer education campaign aimed at protecting Sierra Leoneans from the growing danger of online fraud, cyber scams and digital deception. The initiative seeks to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools required to safely navigate the rapidly expanding digital environment.

The campaign comes at a time when cybercriminals are increasingly using fake internet links circulated through SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, email and other online platforms to trick unsuspecting users into surrendering personal information, compromising accounts and losing money. In several reported cases, hacked accounts have been used by fraudsters to impersonate victims and request financial assistance from their families, friends and business partners.

Speaking on the campaign, NaTCA Director General Amara Brewah emphasized that public awareness remains one of the strongest weapons against cybercrime. He noted that online fraud is not only a Sierra Leonean challenge but a worldwide problem affecting both developing and highly advanced economies.

“These scams happen all over the world, even in first-world countries. Consumer education is therefore the most effective defence and that is exactly what NaTCA is embarking on,” Brewah stated.

The NaTCA Director General further clarified that fraudulent messages and scam links circulating online are not generated by Sierra Leone’s mobile network operators. He explained that the Authority is working with telecommunications companies and other stakeholders to develop practical solutions that will strengthen consumer protection and reduce exposure to cyber threats.

As part of the awareness drive, NaTCA is urging citizens to rely only on verified official websites and authenticated social media platforms when responding to requests involving personal details, financial information or account verification.

The Authority has also warned internet users against clicking suspicious links from unknown sources, sharing One-Time Passwords (OTPs), downloading unfamiliar attachments or providing confidential information without first confirming the authenticity of the request.

To improve digital safety, NaTCA is encouraging users to regularly update their mobile applications and device software, create strong and unique passwords, and activate two-factor authentication on online accounts.

According to the Authority, cybercriminals often use phishing techniques by designing fake websites that closely resemble trusted platforms. These fraudulent sites are created to steal passwords, banking details, mobile money credentials and other sensitive information. NaTCA therefore advised users to carefully check website addresses for unusual spellings, strange characters and suspicious domain names before entering personal data.

The Authority said it continues to collaborate with the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation and development partners to expand digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness throughout Sierra Leone, including activities marking Cyber Security Awareness Month.

NaTCA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding consumers in the digital era, while calling on citizens to remain alert, question suspicious online requests and report suspected cyber scams through official channels.

The Authority stressed that creating a secure digital Sierra Leone is a shared responsibility, with informed and vigilant citizens serving as the first and strongest line of defence against cybercrime.