Cybersecurity Bill,ghana’s New Cybersecurity Bill The Government of Ghana has introduced a new Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, expanding the powers of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) and tightening laws around privacy, surveillance, and emerging digital technologies.
One of the most striking updates is that it is now a crime to record private conversations — even if you are part of the discussion — without lawful consent.
Under the proposed law, anyone who intercepts, records, or retrieves subscriber information, traffic data, or content data without proper authorisation commits an offence punishable by a fine of up to 15,000 penalty units or a prison term of up to five years, or both.
The measure seeks to strengthen privacy protections for citizens as more interactions shift online and onto mobile platforms.
Stronger Enforcement Powers
The amendment empowers the Cyber Security Authority to directly investigate and prosecute cybercrimes on behalf of the Attorney-General, freeze digital assets linked to offences, and confiscate proceeds of cybercrime. CSA officers will also have police powers of arrest, search, and seizure in cybercrime-related cases.
New Laws on Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
A new section (67A) of the bill criminalises cyberbullying, cyberstalking, and online harassment, making it illegal to:
- Send threatening, lewd, or intimidating messages.
- Use fake accounts to stalk or defame others.
- Track someone’s online activity or location without consent.
Offenders face fines between 2,500 and 25,000 penalty units or prison terms ranging from one to ten years, depending on severity.
Protection for Victims and Whistleblowers
The new witness and informant protection clause (59K) ensures that anyone who reports a cyber offence can do so anonymously. Their identities are legally shielded from disclosure during investigations or trials.
Regulating AI, Blockchain, and New Tech
For the first time, the Cyber Security Authority will also certify and regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, quantum computing, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. This ensures that any AI or emerging tech deployed in Ghana meets cybersecurity and data protection standards before launch.
Why It Matters
This amendment positions Ghana as a regional leader in digital law and data protection, balancing innovation with citizen safety. It also reflects a shift toward responsible technology use — protecting people from cyber threats while holding individuals accountable for online misconduct.
Still, the new restriction on recording private conversations is likely to generate debate about freedom of expression, journalism, and transparency. Supporters see it as a step toward stronger privacy; critics may view it as a potential barrier to accountability.
You can access and review the full document here: Download the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (PDF)
The bill is currently under parliamentary consideration and, once passed, will reshape how Ghanaians communicate, record, and interact in the digital space.
