Editorial
Let’s be vigilant to prevent being victims of job scams
The public has been cautioned by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) to be careful of the new tactics being used in employment scams.
The Authority claims that more and more examples of job scams involving victims who lost a significant amount of money are being reported.
Typically, scammers send unsolicited messages using email, Telegram, WhatsApp, and SMS, among other channels.
These scammers impersonate recruiters and promise high-paying, remote or part-time jobs involving digital tasks such as liking social media or clicking on a link.
Numerous people have been duped by these scammers, who first entice their victims with small amounts in exchange for larger sums of money after the victims are locked out of their accounts.
The quicker this concerning tendency is addressed, the better, as it will protect the wallets of job seekers who are in a dire situation.
In relation to employment scams is the problem of cyberattacks. Organisations in the internet age mostly depend on information technology (IT) infrastructure to protect them against cyberattacks, which is why cybersecurity is so important.
Cyber security is the process of safeguarding computer systems and networks against unauthorised access or being otherwise damaged.
Cyber security is crucial because it protects people and organisations from cyberattacks and the loss or theft of sensitive data.
Because of this, businesses, governments, and private citizens are making significant investments in cyber security to safeguard their data and assets from hackers; yet, the risk of cybercrime is rising quickly.
Also, hackers now manage to obtain unauthorised access to Facebook accounts, hinder individuals from accessing their own accounts, and utilise these accounts to secretly raise money.
Another worrying development is that some hackers have been calling victims’ phone numbers and tricking them into updating their WhatsApp accounts in order to obtain personal information that they can use for other schemes, such as Momo fraud.
The Spectator urges the public to exercise caution and distrust high-paying occupations that require little effort. The best way to avoid employment frauds is to double-check job postings.
Sometimes a scam can be easily identified because of the numerous grammatical, typographical, and consistency flaws in the messages.
Certain organisations clearly specify that applicants should not submit any payment at all throughout the hiring process therefore jobseekers who are asked to pay an employer before being hired should be cautious about such practices.
Let’s all exercise caution to stop these scammers and hackers from doing their business.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie