The National Communications Authority (NaTCA) has intensified its consumer education campaign on internet-based links, urging Sierra Leoneans to remain vigilant against fraudulent messages, suspicious links and online scams that continue to target mobile phone and internet users.
The Authority noted that cybercriminals are increasingly using fake internet links distributed through SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, email and other online platforms to hack messaging applications, steal personal information and, in some cases, impersonate victims to solicit money from their family members, friends and business associates.
Speaking on the growing threat, NaTCA Director General, Amara Brewah, clarified that such fraudulent messages do not originate from Sierra Leone’s mobile network operators. He disclosed that the Authority has engaged all players within the telecommunications sector to identify practical measures to minimize the prevalence of those scams and strengthen consumer protection.
According to the Director General, internet-based scams are not unique to Sierra Leone but are a global challenge affecting countries at every level of development, including some of the world’s most technologically advanced nations. He stressed that while technology continues to evolve, cybercriminals are also adopting more sophisticated methods to deceive unsuspecting users.
“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,” he emphasized.
He encouraged members of the public to rely only on information published through verified official websites and authenticated social media platforms whenever they receive messages requesting personal information, financial details or account verification.
As part of its public awareness campaign, NaTCA advised consumers never to click on suspicious internet links received from unknown or unverified sources. The Authority also cautioned against sharing One-Time Passwords (OTPs), downloading attachments from unfamiliar senders or disclosing confidential personal information through online platforms without proper verification.
The Director General further encouraged internet users to adopt stronger cybersecurity practices by keeping their mobile applications and device software updated, creating strong and unique passwords for online accounts and enabling two-factor authentication wherever available to provide an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access.
NaTCA explained that internet-based links are commonly exploited by cybercriminals through phishing attacks, where fake websites are designed to resemble legitimate platforms in order to trick users into revealing passwords, banking details, mobile money credentials or other sensitive information. In many cases, compromised accounts are subsequently used to send fraudulent requests for money to the victim’s contacts.
The Authority therefore advised consumers to verify the sender of every message containing a link before opening it and to carefully inspect website addresses for spelling errors, unusual characters or unfamiliar web domain extensions. Users conducting official transactions were encouraged to access only verified Government or corporate websites, including official domains ending in .gov.sl where applicable.
NaTCA also highlighted the importance of strengthening digital literacy as internet access continues to expand across Sierra Leone. The Authority noted that ongoing initiatives, implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Communication, Technology and Innovation and development partners, are helping to educate citizens on safe internet usage, responsible digital behaviour and cybersecurity awareness.
Public education campaigns, including activities conducted during Cyber Security Awareness Month, continue to raise awareness about the dangers of phishing attacks, fraudulent internet links and other forms of online crime while encouraging safer digital practices among internet users nationwide.
NaTCA reaffirmed that consumer education remains one of its highest priorities in protecting citizens against emerging cyber threats. The Authority urged the public to remain cautious, think carefully before clicking unfamiliar links and report suspected scams to the appropriate authorities.
Anyone requiring further information, guidance or assistance regarding suspicious internet links or other online safety concerns has been encouraged to contact NaTCA through its official communication channels.
The Authority emphasized that building a digitally secure Sierra Leone requires collective responsibility, with informed consumers serving as the first line of defence against internet-based fraud and cybercrime.
