Freetown, June 11, 2025 – In a continued effort to enhance civic awareness, Sierra Leone’s Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Bocakarie Abdel-Aziz Bawoh, has issued a strong warning to the public about the increasing threat of internet scams, particularly a new WhatsApp hacking tactic.
Speaking at the Ministry’s weekly press briefing yesterday, Deputy Minister Bawoh highlighted a concerning trend where cybercriminals impersonate meeting organizers and lure individuals into fake virtual meetings.
Victims are then asked to forward a verification code sent to their WhatsApp — a move that gives scammers full control of the user’s account.
“Once they gain access, these hackers use your profile to manipulate others, often for financial gain,” Bawoh cautioned.
He urged citizens to remain alert and to never share verification codes or personal information with anyone online.
The Ministry continues to stress the importance of digital vigilance as part of its broader campaign to protect the public in an increasingly connected world.
