The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has issued a stark warning to journalists regarding the potential for unverified cybercrime claims and unresolved computer system vulnerabilities to be disseminated without proper verification. Alex Awere-Kyere, Senior Manager for Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) at the CSA, underscored this caution during a training session for media practitioners under the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project (NCMCCBP), a program designed to bolster journalists’ capabilities in reporting on cybersecurity. He stressed the crucial balance between exposing threats and mitigating security risks, emphasizing the potential for disrupting investigations and providing criminals with valuable intelligence.
Mr. Awere-Kyere stated that premature disclosure of vulnerabilities could inadvertently aid criminals in exploiting weaknesses before they are addressed by security agencies. He urged journalists to engage the CSA or other relevant security authorities before publishing, particularly in cases involving cyber crimes with national security implications. Specifically, he highlighted that 13 sectors, including banking and finance, energy, water and health, have been designated as Critical Information Infrastructure sectors due to their vital role in national security and the economy. He expressed concern that disruption to the operations of these institutions could have far-reaching consequences, potentially affecting the broader economy.
He further detailed a series of directives issued by the CSA, including a requirement that sensitive information concerning cyber incidents should be shared with the authorities before publication. Specifically, he outlined that the CSA has advised that agencies should hold on to certain information, or engage the Authority to determine which aspects of the information can safely be made public. The CSA has also emphasized the need for collaboration among various government agencies, including the Joint Cybersecurity Committee, which brings together the CSA, Bank of Ghana, National Communications Authority, Economic and Organized Crime Office, Ghana Army, and the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service. This committee’s engagement has been instrumental in the project’s launch in Accra on August 3, 2026, to strengthen journalists’ capacity to understand cybersecurity issues and report on them responsibly. The project is currently underway in Kumasi, scheduled to move to Accra in September.
The project has resulted in 58 arrests in an INTERPOL operation targeting West African crime networks. It also restored the passport application website after technical challenges. The NCMCCBP program aims to equip journalists with the knowledge and skills to effectively address cybersecurity threats and ensure accurate, responsible reporting, aligning with the CSA’s mandate to protect national security and economic stability. The CSA has stated that they are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where information is shared responsibly and strategically. The project’s long-term goal is to enhance the public’s understanding of cybersecurity issues and contribute to informed decision-making.
This initiative represents a significant step towards strengthening cybersecurity awareness and accountability within the country, demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing potential risks associated with digital infrastructure. The CSA has stated that they will continue to monitor and refine their strategies to ensure the responsible dissemination of information, prioritizing national security and economic stability.
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Source: Adom Online
