Ghanaian Church Hosts Digital Safety Talk

Story by Francis Tuffour

The Columbus Ghanaian church recently hosted two officers from the city’s police department. The event, which focused on educating members about cybercrimes and how to avoid them, was a significant part of the church’s audio-visual and communication day activities. This event not only celebrated the church’s Media Ministries but also honored their dedicated volunteers.

Officers Kofi Owusu-Ansah and Aldolph Adu-Owusu shared invaluable insights on how to stay safe in the digital world. They emphasized the importance of being cautious when using the internet, email and social media. Owusu-Ansah highlighted a common tactic used by cybercriminals: initiating communication under the pretense of offering something positive, only to turn it into a negative experience.

During the event, Owusu-Ansah shared practical tips on how to detect online scams. He advised that if someone were to make contact, offering to sell a car for $5,000 with features like a sunroof and leather seats as part of a complete package yet asks for payment through gift cards, this scenario should raise suspicion.

The officers advised that young people should be mindful of what they post online because their digital footprints could impact their careers or hurt them when looking for jobs. They recommended that parents monitor what their kids do online and check their minors’ usage of messaging apps to prevent potential risks.

A Q&A session allowed members to ask cyber and general questions. Responding to traffic laws concerns, Adu-Owusu said one should not run when police pull them over because the officer has a weapon for a reason. He added that drivers should show respect even when they do not understand something. The officers cautioned members to refrain from arguing with the police when they issue citations since that won’t change their decisions. And they suggested the need to provide information when asked for it.

Church leaders commended the officers for their presentation. Sampson Twumasi, the church’s senior pastor, offered a special prayer for the officers and asked for God’s protection and blessings as they served the community. The church also presented certificates of honor to some members for their dedication and commitment to the church’s audio-visual and Communication Department.

Francis Tuffour, Digital Media and Communication director for the Ohio Conference, delivered a sermon titled, “Digital Discipleship: Spreading Faith in the Modern World.” He commended the Columbus Ghanaian church for its robust Media Ministries, leading to more than 10,000 YouTube subscribers and regular programs on Hope TV and 3ABN in Ghana. He encouraged the church to continue harnessing digital tools to reach people where they are, while also urging the strategic and ethical integration of artificial intelligence. He emphasized that the call to “make disciples of all nations” includes online platforms, as that is where most people are today.