The Government of Ghana has announced a major crackdown on mobile money fraud, revealing plans to block Ghana Cards linked to repeated SIM-related criminal activity. The move forms part of a new SIM registration regime aimed at tightening security across the country’s telecommunications sector.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement in Accra, the Minister for Communications, Samuel Nartey George, warned that individuals whose Ghana Cards are used multiple times for fraudulent SIM registrations tied to mobile money scams will be barred from accessing telecom services. This effectively means offenders could lose the ability to register SIM cards or use mobile networks altogether.
The government says the measure is designed to make fraud costly and discourage the misuse of personal identification. With the Ghana Card now central to accessing most public services, authorities believe the sanctions will serve as a strong deterrent. Citizens have also been urged to protect their personal data and avoid registering SIM cards for others.
In addition, the National Communications Authority is introducing a Central Equipment Identity Register system to tackle phone theft. Under the system, stolen or compromised devices will be blocked from all networks, while a new “primary number” verification process will ensure that any additional SIM registrations linked to a Ghana Card are properly authenticated.
The measures signal a tougher stance by authorities as Ghana intensifies efforts to combat mobile money fraud and restore confidence in the country’s growing digital and telecom ecosystem.
