Telecel Ghana launches SecureNet to shield mobile users from digital fraud and phishing scams

Telecel Ghana has introduced SecureNet, a network-level cybersecurity service designed to protect mobile subscribers from an increasingly sophisticated array of digital threats, including phishing attacks, fraudulent websites and mobile money scams. The service, developed through a partnership with global cybersecurity firm Whalebone, operates without requiring customers to install additional software, offering real-time protection directly through Telecel's mobile network.

The launch reflects growing concern about cyber threats facing Ghanaian consumers as digital commerce, mobile banking and online services become central to daily life. According to Telecel, SecureNet works by detecting and blocking connections to known malicious sites before users reach harmful destinations, effectively adding a protective layer to the browsing experience for all Telecel customers who subscribe.

"We understand that connectivity also brings greater exposure to digital threats," said Aneth Muga, Director of Consumer Business at Telecel Ghana. "SecureNet gives our customers an additional layer of protection that works in the background, helping them navigate the internet with greater confidence."

How SecureNet works and subscription options

The service functions at the network level, meaning protection is active whenever customers use Telecel mobile data. When a user attempts to access a website or link flagged as malicious or associated with known online threats, SecureNet identifies and blocks the connection before the harmful content reaches the device.

Telecel is offering flexible subscription plans to suit different customer needs. The pricing structure includes a daily option at GH¢0.33, weekly subscription at GH¢2, and a monthly plan at GH¢7. Customers can activate SecureNet by dialling *427# on their Telecel line.

The deployment is being delivered through Whalebone's local partner, AntCellular, combining Telecel's extensive network infrastructure with specialised threat-detection capabilities. According to Ismail Embaby, Vice President for Middle East and Africa at Whalebone, the partnership demonstrates how telecommunications operators can play a more active role in protecting consumers. "By embedding protection directly into Telecel Ghana's network, we block phishing and malicious activity before it reaches users, using localized threat intelligence tailored to the market," he explained.

Why this matters for Ghana

Ghana's rapidly expanding digital economy has created significant opportunities for consumers and businesses, but also new vulnerabilities. The rise of mobile money services, online banking and e-commerce platforms has made Ghanaians increasingly exposed to sophisticated cyber attacks designed to impersonate legitimate institutions and services.

Scammers have become adept at creating phishing campaigns and fraudulent websites that closely mimic legitimate banking platforms and shopping sites, making it difficult for ordinary users to distinguish genuine communications from malicious ones. Mobile money scams and social-engineering attacks targeting personal or financial information have become particularly prevalent as more Ghanaians depend on digital services for financial transactions.

SecureNet's introduction addresses a critical gap in consumer protection, particularly for users who may lack technical expertise or resources to install separate security software. By providing automatic, always-on protection at the network level, the service offers a more accessible form of cybersecurity for Ghana's broad mobile user base.

Telecel has also encouraged customers to combine SecureNet with good digital hygiene practices, including avoiding suspicious links, verifying the source of requests for personal information, using strong passwords, and remaining cautious of unsolicited messages or offers. As Ghana's digital economy continues to expand, the company indicated it will continue investing in security solutions enabling customers to participate confidently in the digital marketplace.