The National Communications Authority (NaTCA) has intensified its nationwide consumer education campaign on internet safety, urging Sierra Leoneans to remain vigilant against fraudulent internet links and other forms of cybercrime that continue to target mobile phone and internet users.
According to the Authority, cybercriminals are increasingly using fake internet links distributed through SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, email and other digital platforms to gain unauthorized access to messaging applications, steal personal information and impersonate victims in order to solicit money from their family members, friends and business associates.
Speaking on the growing threat of online fraud, Director General of NaTCA, Amara Brewah, clarified that such fraudulent messages do not originate from Sierra Leone’s mobile network operators. He disclosed that the Authority has engaged key stakeholders within the telecommunications sector to develop practical measures aimed at reducing internet-based scams while strengthening consumer protection nationwide.
Amara Brewah emphasized that internet scams are not unique to Sierra Leone but are a global challenge affecting countries at every level of technological development, including some of the world’s most advanced economies. He noted that while digital technology continues to evolve, cybercriminals are also becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods of deceiving 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,” Amara Brewah stated.
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 ongoing 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 urged internet users to strengthen their cybersecurity practices by keeping 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 fraudulent internet links are commonly used in phishing attacks, where fake websites are designed to closely resemble legitimate platforms in order to trick users into revealing passwords, banking information, mobile money credentials and other sensitive data. 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 examine website addresses for spelling errors, unusual characters or unfamiliar domain extensions. It also encouraged users conducting official transactions to access only verified Government or corporate websites, including official domains ending in .gov.sl, where applicable.
NaTCA 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 use, responsible digital behaviour and cybersecurity awareness.
The Authority stated that public education campaigns, including activities organized during Cyber Security Awareness Month, continue to raise awareness about phishing attacks, fraudulent internet links and other forms of online crime while promoting safer digital practices among internet users nationwide.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting consumers against emerging cyber threats, NaTCA stressed that public education remains one of its highest priorities. The Authority urged citizens to remain cautious, think carefully before clicking unfamiliar links and promptly report suspected scams through its official communication channels.
NaTCA concluded that building a digitally secure Sierra Leone requires a collective effort, emphasizing that informed and vigilant consumers remain the country’s first line of defence against internet-based fraud and cybercrime.
