The "Ghana Empress Leak" case has brought to light the growing concerns surrounding cybercrime, online safety, and the exploitation of individuals through digital platforms. This article delves into the details of the case, the legal implications, and the broader context of cyber security efforts in Ghana.
The Minister of Communications, Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, announced the arrest of Anderson Ofosuhene Anim, the operator of the "Empress Leak" platform. The investigation was launched following a report filed on January 6th, 2020, by a female Senior High School student with the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-GH) of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).
Being Safe on the Internet
According to the Minister, the operator of this notorious site has always been on the wanted list of the Cyber Security team.
Cybercrime Incident Reporting
The National Cyber Security Centre launched a Cybercrime/Cybersecurity Incident Reporting Point of Contact (PoC) in 2019 to provide an effective mechanism for citizens to report suspected and identified cybercrime and cybersecurity incidents. Many cybercrime/cybersecurity incidents reports from the public have been received by the NCSC since the operationalization of the PoC.
Out of 296 cases received by the National CERT between January 1 and June 30, 2020, 27% (79 cases) were related to sextortion, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, or child online abuse.
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How Criminals Operate
Victims are often coaxed into sharing nude pictures or videos of themselves or performing sexual acts that are secretly recorded. Criminals then capitalize on these recordings to extort money from the victims.
Legal Provisions
The Minister explained that child pornographic content and the act of extortion constitute criminal activities under Section 136(1) of the Electronic Transactions Act, 2008 (Act 772) and Section 151 of Criminal and Other Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).
Specifically, Section 136(1) of Act 772 states that anyone who "possesses child pornography in a computer system or on a computer or electronic record storage medium, commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not more than 25 penalty units or a term of imprisonment of not more than 10 years or to both."
Police Investigation and Charges
COP Isaac Ken Yeboah, Director General of the CID of the Ghana Police Service, revealed that victims are compelled to pay between GHS 500 to 1,000 via mobile money. The suspect will be charged for obscenity, child pornography, and extortion.
Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Head of the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), mentioned that the site had been active since 2013 and was hosted in the United States. He said that the government will not relent in the fight against child pornography and child online protection and will continue to create awareness and sensitization on the menace.
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Call to Action
The Minister implored the general public, especially children and young adults, to be cautious of the activities of malicious individuals. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako called on the public to use the NCSC Points of Contact (call or SMS 292) to report cybercrime incidents.
Ghana's Commitment to Cyber Security
Ghana is committed to protecting its cyberspace. The National Cyber Security Centre works closely with the National Cyber Security Technical Working Group (NCSTWG), which provides technical direction to the country's cybersecurity efforts.
Key Figures at the Press Briefing:
- Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful (Minister of Communications)
- COP Isaac Ken Yeboah (Director General, CID of the Ghana Police Service)
- Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako (National Cybersecurity Advisor)
- George Andah (Deputy Minister for Communications)
- Alexander Abban (Deputy Minister for Communications)
- Dr. Gustav Yankson (Director, Cybercrime Unit)
- Mrs. Magdalene Apenteng (Chief Director)
Table 1: Summary of Cybercrime Cases Received by National CERT (January 1 - June 30, 2020)
| Type of Case | Number of Cases | Percentage of Total Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Sextortion, Non-Consensual Sharing of Intimate Images, Child Online Abuse | 79 | 27% |
| Total Cases Received | 296 | 100% |
The "Ghana Empress Leak" case underscores the importance of cyber security, online safety, and the need for vigilance in the digital age. By addressing these issues head-on, Ghana aims to create a safer online environment for its citizens.
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