MTN Bright Conversations: Empowering media with cybersecurity best practices

Telecommunications giants MTN Ghana convened a cybersecurity awareness meeting at the company's Ridge headquarters in Accra on Monday.

Under the theme "Living with Security," the session focused on educating journalists about navigating digital spaces safely while highlighting MTN’s ongoing commitment to a secure digital environment.

The meeting brought together prominent voices in cybersecurity including MTN’s Chief Information Officer, Mr. Bernard Acquah, who  shared insights from his wealth of IT experience. The event was moderated by Mr. Koby Spiky Nkrumah, CEO of ctrl. IT and a digital specialist with EIB.

Speakers  delved into the realities of daily cybersecurity threats and the need for proactive digital habits.

Mr. Acquah stressed simple yet effective safety measures which included turning off WiFi and Bluetooth when not in use, securing personal information, and performing regular device updates to fend off cyber attacks.

"In the digital age, safeguarding your identity is crucial," he noted.

He urged users to be wary of unsolicited messages or fraudulent prize announcements. "You can’t win a lottery you haven’t entered," he noted, using relatable examples to make his point.

A key focus of the discussion was educating younger generations. Mr. Acquah advised parents to be proactive in guiding their children’s online activities, promoting early awareness of cybersecurity risks. He encouraged responsible use of AI, framing it as a tool for learning rather than potential misuse.

Underpinning the event was MTN’s overarching message: “Don’t let your smart device outsmart you.” Mr. Nkrumah echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of treating personal devices as secure, private tools and avoiding casual sharing that could expose users to unintended risks.

This session was part of MTN’s broader campaign to enhance cybersecurity literacy, equipping the media with the knowledge to inform the public. The initiative underscores MTN’s role in fostering a security-conscious community, emphasizing the importance of safe digital practices in today’s fast-paced online landscape.