A new wave of digital fraud is circulating across Ghana, masquerading as trusted institutions. Scammers are using artificial intelligence, cloned websites, and social media ads to promote a fake investment scheme falsely linked to Ghana Oil Company Limited, GOIL. The operation, commonly shared online as the “GOIL Project,” promises guaranteed monthly income from small deposits. GOIL has issued a public denial and warned citizens to ignore the claims.
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How the Fake GOIL Scheme Spreads Online
The scam appears across X, Facebook, and sponsored links on dubious websites. Some of these pages imitate reputable Ghanaian media outlets to appear legitimate. The messaging claims the platform was developed by GOIL leadership and endorsed at the highest level of government.
Key promises used to hook victims include:
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GH₵3,000 investment with monthly returns of GH₵15,000 or more
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Government-backed digital income accessible via mobile phone
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Fast wealth through supposed GOIL share ownership
At the centre of the campaign is a deepfake video. In it, President John Dramani Mahama appears to announce a national investment programme. The video is entirely AI-generated.
The clip is embedded on websites hosted on random foreign domains. These sites use stolen GOIL branding, fake testimonials, and countdown timers to pressure users into acting quickly.
Once registered, victims are asked to submit personal data and send money via mobile money or cryptocurrency. No returns are ever paid.
What the Scam Claims Versus the Truth
| Claim Made by Scammers | Verified Reality |
|---|---|
| Monthly GH₵15,000 returns | No such programme exists |
| Endorsed by GOIL and the government | Deepfake and false attribution |
| Safe and government-guaranteed | No official backing |
| Limited slots available | Psychological pressure tactic |
GOIL Issues Public Warning
On December 16, 2025, GOIL released an official notice through its verified X account. The company confirmed that it has not launched any investment scheme for individuals.
In a video statement, GOIL warned that fraudsters are abusing its brand name and public trust. The company clearly stated that it does not solicit investments through social media, advertisements, or unofficial websites.
The warning forms part of a wider trend. Trusted brands in Ghana are increasingly being targeted by organised digital fraud networks.
Why This Scam Is a Serious Threat
This scheme succeeds because it blends technology with trust. AI-generated videos lower scepticism. Professional-looking websites reduce suspicion. The entry amount feels attainable.
Retirees, informal workers, and digitally curious first-time investors are most at risk. Once personal data is leaked, victims may face long-term financial and identity risks.
The scam reflects a broader digital threat landscape in Ghana. Fake mobile money alerts, phishing campaigns, and investment fraud are becoming more coordinated and harder to detect.
How to Protect Yourself Online
Ghanaians can reduce risk by following basic digital safety rules:
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Verify before you invest
Confirm announcements only via goil.com.gh or GOIL’s verified social accounts. -
Question guaranteed profits
High returns with no risk are mathematically impossible. -
Report immediately
Contact GOIL directly or report to the Ghana Police Cybercrime Unit. -
Educate vulnerable relatives
Many victims are targeted through WhatsApp and Facebook ads. -
Harden your digital security.
Avoid unknown links and enable two-factor authentication on financial platforms.
