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Minister of Information and Civic Education Chernor Bah has raised alarm over the growing activities of WhatsApp scammers after escaping an attempted fraud scheme, calling for stronger action from telecommunications companies and security authorities to track and prosecute offenders.
The Minister disclosed that he receives several scam attempts daily, noting that the tactics used by fraudsters have become increasingly familiar. He said one suspected scammer contacted him on WhatsApp and attempted to deceive him into sending money, but the attempt was unsuccessful.
According to Minister Bah, the individual quickly provided an Orange Money account number after he engaged the scammer, exposing the fraudulent nature of the request.
“Don’t let anyone pressure you to send them a code that you didn’t request. And certainly don’t send money for someone without video call authorisation. Double-check. Plenty,” he cautioned.
Reacting to the incident, Chief Minister Dr David Moinina Sengeh called for the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in phone-based scams, stressing the need to make cyber fraud costly for perpetrators.
He argued that stronger enforcement measures would serve as a deterrent, saying those involved in hacking and fraudulent activities must face serious consequences.
Responding to the Chief Minister, Chernor Bah agreed that telecommunications providers and security agencies should work together to identify and take action against scammers.
The Information Minister called for the creation of a database of phone numbers used in fraudulent activities, urging authorities to immediately trace and investigate such accounts.
The exchange between the two senior government officials highlights growing concerns over the rise of digital scams in Sierra Leone, as authorities encourage the public to remain vigilant and avoid sharing security codes or sending money without proper verification.
