By: Alimatu Kargbo
Sierra Leoneans have been urged to be more cautious when using WhatsApp and other digital platforms, as cybercriminals increasingly exploit fear, urgency and emotions to defraud unsuspecting victims.
The National Cybersecurity Coordinator, Mariama Yormah, gave the warning during the Government’s Weekly Press Conference, where she explained that many online fraudsters deliberately create situations that pressure victims into acting before they have time to verify the information.
According to Yormah, criminals may take control of a person’s WhatsApp account and then use it to contact friends and relatives, pretending to be the account owner and asking for money.
She said a message appearing to come from a close relative or friend should not automatically be trusted, particularly when it involves an urgent request for money.
“Stop, think and verify,” she advised, stressing that people should contact the person directly through another channel before sending money.
Yormah also encouraged victims to take screenshots of suspicious messages, numbers and mobile money details and report them to the relevant authorities.
She explained that once a complaint is received, the information can be used to trace the activity and engage telecommunications operators where necessary to take appropriate action.
The cybersecurity coordinator said the speed with which criminals move makes early reporting particularly important.
She noted that cybercrime is often organised, with groups of individuals working together to deceive victims and move stolen funds quickly.
Yormah therefore urged the public not to allow panic or fear to override common sense.
She said people should pause whenever a message creates a sense of urgency and ask themselves whether the request is genuine before taking action.
Her advice comes at a time when social media and mobile money have become an everyday part of life for many Sierra Leoneans, making digital safety increasingly important.
