The dark side of data harvesting in Ghana

The CEO of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Professor Otchere Mensah has emphasized the importance of securing patient data and promoting confidentiality. Speaking during an event organized by the Cyber Security Authority in collaboration with Ghana Health Service in Kumasi recently, Professor Mensah said “Patients want their data secured, so let’s uphold patient data confidentiality. Collaboration and education are key to building a resilient health ecosystem."

This concern is particularly relevant in Ghana, where data harvesting has become a lucrative business, compromising citizens' privacy and data security.

CEO of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Professor Otchere Mensah (Photo credit: Cyber Security Authority)

In recent years, Ghana has witnessed a surge in data harvesting, transforming it into a profitable venture across various sectors. Event organizers and corporate institutions collect personal data without consent, selling it to third-party institutions, marketing firms, or individuals. This alarming trend has severe consequences.

The consequences of unchecked data harvesting are far-reaching. Citizens' personal information is vulnerable to exploitation, compromising their right to privacy. Sensitive data can fall into the wrong hands, leading to identity theft and financial fraud. Harvested data can also be used to manipulate individuals through targeted marketing or propaganda. Furthermore, unsecured data storage increases the risk of cyber attacks, potentially compromising national security.

To combat data harvesting and protect citizens' rights, Ghana must take urgent action. The Ghana Data Protection Commission must be empowered to effectively enforce the Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843). Event organizers and data collectors must obtain explicit consent from data subjects, disclosing how their information will be used. Educating citizens on their rights and the importance of data protection is also crucial. Establishing and enforcing stringent regulations for data collection, storage, and sharing is essential.

By addressing these concerns, Ghana can safeguard its citizens' personal information and maintain trust in the digital economy. The time to act is now, to protect the privacy and security of Ghanaians.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye