Mobile money is safe when you use it safely. Most money lost to MoMo fraud in Ghana is not stolen by hackers; it is handed over, one PIN or one “send it back” at a time. This checklist works whether you use MTN MoMo, Telecel Cash or AT Money.
The checklist
- Your PIN is yours alone. Nobody genuine will ask for it. Not network staff, not agents, not relatives on a strange number.
- Use a strong PIN. No birth years, no 1234, no last four digits of your phone number.
- Never read out a code you received by SMS. One-time codes are keys to your accounts. See never share your OTP.
- Check your real balance, not the text. Fake payment alerts are common. See how to spot a fake MoMo payment alert.
- Read the name before you confirm. The confirmation screen shows who you are paying. Wrong name? Cancel.
- Set up a recovery option. On MTN, add a recovery number for self PIN reset. On Telecel Cash, the reset is under *110# → Self Service.
- Lock your phone with a PIN, pattern or fingerprint.
- Protect your SIM. If your phone loses signal suddenly, call your network from another phone straight away. See SIM swap fraud.
- Do not dial codes strangers give you. Some codes move money or change settings.
- Slow down when you feel rushed. Urgency is the scammer’s main tool.
Resetting your PIN on each network
| Network | How to reset or change your PIN |
|---|---|
| MTN MoMo | *170# → My Wallet → Change & Reset PIN, or “Forgot PIN” in the MoMo app (with Ghana Card face verification) |
| Telecel Cash | *110# → Self Service (7) → Change/Reset PIN (1) → Reset PIN (2) → enter new PIN |
| AT Money | Call AT on 100 or visit an AT shop |
The scams to know by name
- The wrong-transfer call: a fake deposit text, then a call begging you to send it back.
- The fake customer care call: “Your wallet will be blocked unless you verify”. MTN lists “Fake Blocking” as a fraud type you can report.
- The fake promotion: you have won something, but must pay a fee or share a code first.
- The hijacked WhatsApp: a friend’s account asking for urgent money.
- The SIM swap: your number moved to a fraudster’s SIM.
More detail in how to spot a mobile money scam.
If it happens: the first hour
- Call your provider on its official customer care line and report the transaction (ID, amount, time, number).
- Change your PIN.
- On MTN, also report through *170# → My Wallet → Report Fraud, or email mmfraudteam.GH@mtn.com.
- Report to the police and to the Cyber Security Authority. See how to report cybercrime in Ghana.
If someone is rushing you to do something with your money, that rush is the scam.
This guide was checked in October 2026. Menus and services change, so if something looks different on your phone, check with your provider.
Common questions
Is mobile money safe in Ghana?
The systems are secure. Most losses happen when people are tricked into sharing a PIN or code, or into sending money themselves. Good habits stop most of it.
How do I reset my Telecel Cash PIN?
Telecel’s steps: dial *110#, choose Self Service (option 7), Change/Reset PIN (option 1), Reset PIN (option 2), then enter a new PIN.
Should I keep large amounts in my wallet?
Wallets have limits and are best for everyday money. For savings, consider a bank account or the savings products your network offers.
What should I do in the first hour after fraud?
Call your provider on its official line, report the transaction details, change your PIN, then report to the police and the Cyber Security Authority.
