Cyber Security Authority to embark on grassroots campaign for safe cyber practices

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) is set to embark on an extensive grassroots effort to educate the public on safe cyber practices.

The Minister for Communication and Digitalisation Mrs Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, disclosed this at the launch of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) in Accra on Sunday.

"The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) will engage in grassroots efforts, including a 'door-to-door' campaign with faith-based organisations to educate the public on issues related to misinformation, disinformation and other safe cyber practices," she said.

Emphasising the need for the campaign, she noted that studies have shown that the growing dependence on the internet has introduced more risks and vulnerabilities, creating new opportunities for criminal activity

The grassroots initiative is part of the broader NCSAM campaign, themed "Combating Misinformation/Disinformation in a Digitally Resilient Democracy; Our Collective Responsibility."

Mrs Owusu-Ekuful stated that the theme reflects the urgent need to address false information online, especially as Ghana approaches a critical electoral period in December.

She explained the distinction between misinformation and disinformation, saying, "Misinformation involves the sharing of false or misleading information without malicious intent, whereas disinformation is the deliberate creation and dissemination of false information intended to deceive."

Mrs Owusu-Ekuful urged various groups to join the campaign, saying, "As we embark on this year's NCSAM, we must unite to make this initiative a resounding success.

“We urge identifiable groups, Civil Society Organisations, the Media and the general public to actively engage in NCSAM," she added.