The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has alerted the public about a scam involving fraudsters posing as FDA officers to target food service establishments.
These scammers claim to be investigating food poisoning incidents and use this as a pretext to request access to the businesses’ WhatsApp accounts.
The FDA warns that the aim of these fraudsters is to access confidential data, such as client databases, or to compromise the businesses’ systems. In some cases, they also attempt to extort money under false pretenses.
The FDA clarified that food poisoning investigations are treated as serious public health issues and are carried out through on-site inspections, not phone calls.
Food vendors, restaurants, and eateries are advised to exercise caution when dealing with such calls. Suspicious communications should be reported immediately to the police or any FDA regional office.
The FDA has also reiterated that its field officers are not authorised to collect payments from clients. Establishments are urged to verify any claims by contacting the FDA directly at 0551112224/5 or via email at fda@fda.gov.gh.
