By Milcah Tanimu
MTN’s MoMo service in Ghana, a crucial tool for mobile transactions, is currently under scrutiny due to increasing reports of fraud. Users are expressing significant concerns about the security of their funds on the platform, following a series of alarming incidents.
A viral thread on X drew attention to the issue when a user, @_Jay_Sterling_, warned that fraudsters could now access cash from MoMo accounts without needing the user’s PIN. This warning sparked widespread anxiety among users, many of whom shared their troubling experiences online.
One user recounted a near-fraudulent incident where they received an unexpected MoMo authorization request and a call from someone pretending to correct a mistaken transaction. The fraudster attempted to guide the user through a fake PIN change process, but the user recognized the scam and avoided sharing their PIN.
Another user described a more elaborate scheme involving fraudulent calls and unauthorized transactions. After initially being deceived into providing personal information, the user received calls from individuals posing as MTN staff, further attempting to extract sensitive details. Despite reporting the incident to MTN, the user felt the response was inadequate.
These experiences reflect a growing frustration among MoMo users who feel that MTN Ghana is not doing enough to prevent and address fraud. Complaints include difficulties in reaching customer service and slow resolution of fraud cases. Some users are calling for improved security measures and better responsiveness from MTN.
While MTN Ghana has previously advised users to safeguard their PINs and be cautious of sharing personal information, recent reports suggest that fraudsters may now be bypassing PIN requirements altogether. Attempts to get an official comment from MTN Ghana on these latest issues have so far been unsuccessful.