The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has expressed concern over the recent increase in online blackmail cases.

According to the authority, a total of 226 cases have been recorded so far, resulting in a loss of GH¢112,209 from victims.

It said these malicious actors gain unauthorised access to private photos and videos of their targets when the victims' mobile devices are taken for repairs.

They then threaten to release the nude videos and photos of the victims if they fail to pay a ransom.

"Following the March 2024 alert, in which the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) noted a 254% year-on-year increase in online blackmail cases for the first two months of the year, an additional one hundred and forty-one (141) reports were filed between March and June. The two hundred and twenty-six (226) cases recorded so far this year have resulted in a loss of GH¢112,209," the Cyber Security Authority said in a release sighted by GhanaWeb.

The Cyber Security Authority has urged the public to desist from capturing or storing nude images or videos of themselves on their devices.

It also advised the public to use strong passwords to protect sensitive data and only use reputable repairers when their devices are damaged.

SA/AE