By: Willie Bee Tingba, Jr.
As Cybersecurity Awareness Month concludes, Liberia faces a defining moment in its digital journey. The nation has experienced unprecedented growth in the use of mobile communication, digital banking, and online governance, connecting millions and modernizing the way people live and work. Yet, this technological progress comes with a growing wave of cybercrime that now threatens individuals, businesses, and national institutions. A new form of deception — centered around WhatsApp impersonation scams — has emerged, exploiting trust and digital systems in ways never seen before. These scams are not just the work of amateur hackers; they are organized, strategic, and deeply psychological. They mimic authority, replicate identity, and weaponize communication itself.
The rise of such scams is a stark warning that cybersecurity is not merely a technical concern but a matter of national stability and personal safety. As one cybersecurity expert in Monrovia emphasized, “We are witnessing a digital threat that hides in plain sight. It is not just targeting devices; it is targeting human trust.” This reality makes awareness, education, and collaboration the most critical defenses Liberia can deploy as it moves deeper into the digital age.
The Evolution of Cybercrime in Liberia
Liberia’s digital expansion has brought both promise and peril. With greater internet access and online services, cybercriminals have found new opportunities to exploit weaknesses. The new generation of scammers uses intelligence-driven social engineering and data falsification to create fake digital identities. By cloning phone numbers, WhatsApp accounts, and email addresses, they deceive victims into believing they are communicating with legitimate individuals. This calculated deception, often called WhatsApp impersonation fraud, allows criminals to impersonate respected figures, extract money, and compromise sensitive information.
How the WhatsApp Scam Works
The scam follows a precise method of manipulation:
A. Impersonation – Scammers create accounts using real names, photos, and official titles.
B. Social Engineering – They use friendly and professional language, referencing current events to build trust.
C. Exploitation – Once confidence is established, they request funds or private information under false pretenses.
D. Deception and Disappearance – When the victim complies, the scammers disappear, leaving confusion and embarrassment.
“Cybercriminals no longer rely on broken English and vague promises. They now use real data, official logos, and local context to appear authentic,” one cybersecurity analyst observed. Their operations are not random—they are studied, deliberate, and dangerously convincing.
A National Security Threat
Beyond financial loss, these scams represent a significant national security concern. When criminals can convincingly impersonate government officials or institutional leaders, they can influence decisions, undermine public confidence, and manipulate national discourse. The danger extends beyond individuals—it threatens Liberia’s governance, economy, and reputation. A national security officer described the situation plainly: “This is not just a cybercrime problem; it is a trust crisis.”
Human Vulnerability and Digital Psychology
The success of these scams lies in exploiting human emotions. Fear, urgency, and respect for authority are the tools of manipulation. A message framed as confidential or urgent can compel even cautious individuals to act without verifying. As the International Telecommunication Union (2024) reports, over 80% of cyberattacks globally exploit human behavior rather than technical flaws. One digital security expert remarked, “People are often the weakest link in cybersecurity, not because they are careless, but because they are human.”
Protecting Yourself and Your Organization
Every Liberian has a role in safeguarding the nation’s digital integrity. Here are practical steps to follow:
1. Verify all communications—use official channels to confirm requests.
2. Enable two-factor authentication on all apps and accounts.
3. Update your devices and apps regularly.
4. Avoid sharing personal details online.
5. Be skeptical of urgent or emotional messages.
6. Educate others—awareness saves more than one person.
7. Report suspicious activities immediately.
“Cybersecurity is not an event; it is a culture,” one information security specialist explained. “Every employee, every citizen, must become a digital guardian.”
The Role of Institutions and the Government
To effectively counter cyber threats, collaboration across sectors is vital. The government must enact stronger cybercrime laws, build specialized digital forensics units, and strengthen partnerships with international cyber agencies. Institutions should conduct regular security audits, enforce data protection measures, and train staff in digital hygiene. Public awareness campaigns must continue throughout the year, ensuring that citizens recognize and respond to online threats quickly.
A Shared National Duty
Liberia’s journey toward digital development cannot succeed without cybersecurity at its core. The theme of this year’s awareness month, “See Yourself in Cyber,” is more than a slogan—it is a call to action. Every citizen is both a potential target and a potential defender. The fight against cybercrime is not for a few experts; it is for everyone. Awareness, vigilance, and cooperation are the keys to defending Liberia’s digital future.
Conclusion: Beyond Awareness Month
As October comes to an end, the real challenge begins. Cybercriminals evolve daily, and so must our defenses. The WhatsApp scam storm sweeping across Liberia serves as a powerful reminder that cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. Knowledge, vigilance, and collaboration are the shields that protect the nation’s digital destiny. As one digital advocate stated, “Cybercrime thrives in silence, but it crumbles under awareness.” Liberia must continue to speak, educate, and protect—because our digital safety depends on it.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Willie Bee Tingba, Jr. is a Liberian digital rights activist and Project Management Professional (PMI-PMP®). A Digital Development Consultant. He is the Founder and President Emeritus of the Liberia Information Technology Student Union (LITSU) and a Former Lecturer at BlueCrest University Liberia.
Contact: WhatsApp +2156697540 | Email: tingba92@gmail.com
