A new UNICEF U-Report poll has revealed that about 49% of young people in Ghana have experienced online violence, with 56% reporting emotional distress as a result.
The findings showed that the safety of many young people in the digital space is threatened by abuse and this is because most people lack in-depth knowledge of the attacks in cyberspace.
Over 1,000 young people participated in the poll through platforms like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and SMS using the codes SID25 1755 or SID25.
In celebration of Safer Internet Day 2025, U-Report, UNICEF used the opportunity to emphasize the importance of safe online spaces for young people.
Benjamin Dadson, Data Communication Officer at UNICEF, emphasized that protecting young people online is a top priority and highlighted the importance of education and awareness in ensuring digital safety.
He suggested that cybersecurity education should be incorporated into the school curriculum, from basic to tertiary levels, to help young people understand digital literacy and their rights in online spaces.
He also mentioned that Ghana’s Cybersecurity Act 2020 plays a crucial role in combating cybercrime and protecting internet users, including young people. However, many young people are unaware of their rights under the law.
Dadson urged young people to learn about existing laws and use the appropriate reporting channels to address online violence.
He said young people in Ghana can report cyber-related issues through the 292 hotline, text messages, emails, and WhatsApp, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.
Mr. Dadson also advised that children should be educated on online risks and safe digital practices before being given access to digital devices.
He believes that a proactive approach can help reduce the chances of young people becoming victims of online abuse.
Amiya Halder, Youth Engagement Officer at UNICEF, in an interview, noted that one of the most significant findings from the poll was that almost half of young people said they’ve experienced violence online. 51% said they know somebody who has experienced violence online that is affecting every part of their lives.
“The best advice is that be more cautious about what you are doing, who you are sharing information with. There is nothing wrong with that, there are systems in place but as a country as a world we have to foster a better culture when it comes to how we treat each other and how we use the internet for good,” she noted.
She said the U-Report is UNICEF’s digital community for young people, and by young people, created to give them a platform to voice their concerns, participate in polls, and take action on issues affecting their lives.
As part of the event, UNICEF engaged key stakeholders, including Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority, AT Ghana, and young student panelists, to discuss online safety, the prevalence of online violence, and the emotional toll it takes on young people.
Many young people shared personal experiences of cyberbullying, online harassment, and exposure to harmful content.
Sylvia Anderson, a student at UNIMAC, recounted how she and a friend were nearly scammed while trying to order pizza online.
According to her, in early December 2024, her friend found the contact of an online pizza company and placed an order. Later, the supposed vendor called, demanding her Mobile Money PIN code and account details. Fortunately, she quickly realized it was a scam and avoided being defrauded.
“At the end of the day, we both learned our lesson and are now more careful and mindful about the things we see on the internet,” she said.
