The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), through its Department of International Gateway Services, has officially launched its nationwide cybersecurity awareness campaign in Gompa City, Nimba County.
The event, held on Friday, November 22, 2024, drew a significant turnout as part of the LTA’s ongoing efforts to educate Liberians about the risks associated with cyber scams, fraud, and other online offenses that threaten both individuals and institutions.
Following the successful Cybersecurity Conference in October 2024, this launch marked a key milestone in the LTA’s mission to equip every citizen across Liberia with the knowledge to protect themselves from digital threats.
Commissioner Angela Cassell Bush led the campaign’s launch and emphasized the importance of fostering an informed public in the fight against cybercrimes, and asserted, “The goal of this campaign is to ensure that every Liberian, regardless of their background, understands the potential dangers lurking online and knows how to protect themselves from cyber scams and fraud.”
Also, the one-day event included radio interviews on several local stations to raise awareness in Nimba County, as the LTA team appeared on Radio Voice of Gompa (VOG) 106.5, HOTT FM 107.9, and Radio Seletorwah FM 101.1, discussing strategies to avoid online scams, the dangers of opening unverified links, and the importance of being vigilant on social media platforms.
A community engagement session followed, targeting diverse groups including market women and motorcyclists, as the participants were educated on how to safeguard their personal information, recognize phishing attempts, and resist falling victim to digital fraud.
A float through the streets of Gompa, coupled with door-to-door outreach, further amplified the campaign’s message.
The LTA’s team engaged directly with residents, handing out informational materials and providing advice on how to stay safe in the digital age.
Schools in the region, including United Liberia Inland Academy (ULICA), Geolanda Community School, J.W. Pearson High School, Mansiah Christian Academy (MCA), Christian Foundation High School, and Ganta YMCA High School, were also actively involved in the event.
Students were given special attention, as the campaign’s focus included raising awareness among the youth about online safety and security.
Commissioner Bush also shared that the cybersecurity campaign will be rolled out across all 15 counties of Liberia in the coming months, targeting schools, businesses, government institutions, and ordinary citizens alike, and added, “We are committed to reaching every corner of Liberia with this crucial message.”
Meanwhile, the LTA’s cybersecurity awareness campaign team included Angela Cassell Bush, Commissioner Joe Jomah Kerkula, Sangai P. Moliwulo, Cllr. T. Emmanuel Tomah, Kpanah Sao, and Chris Gahndolo.
Other members are Moses M. Lamin, Marcus G. Geeplay, Milton Quaye, Momodu Sombai, Barleh H. Kiawu, Morris Baryogar, Marlene D. Global, Tonia Hardy, Fatima Foeday, Richman Cooper, and Harrietta R. Gblorso.
The campaign, poised to make an impact nationwide, marks a critical step in Liberia’s ongoing efforts to combat the growing threat of cybercrimes, ensuring that citizens are not only aware of the risks but also well-prepared to defend themselves in the digital world.
