STORY
Columbus Ghanaian Church Hosts Police Officers For Digital Safety Talk
March 23, 2024
Francis Tuffour
Today, Columbus Ghanaian Church hosted two officers from the city's Police Department to educate members on cyber crimes and how to avoid them. The cops' talk was part of the church's audio-visual and communication day activities to celebrate media ministries and honor 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.
He advised that should someone make contact, offering to sell a Mercedes Benz for $5,000 in 2024, with features like a sunroof and leather seats as part of a complete package, yet asking for payment through gift cards, the scenario should raise suspicions because the proposition doesn't seem legitimate. He also shared how to detect online romance scams and the need to prevent them.
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 question and answer session allowed members to ask cyber and general questions. Responding to traffic laws concerns, Aldolph 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. They suggested the need to provide information when asked for.
The church leaders commended the officers for their presentation. Sampson K. Twumasi, the church's senior pastor, offered special prayers for the officers and asked for God's protection and blessings as they served the community. The church 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 of the Ohio Conference preached a sermon titled: "Digital Discipleship: Spreading Faith in the Modern World" and commended the church for its robust media ministries, which has led to over 10,000 YouTube subscribers and regular programs on Hope TV and 3ABN in Ghana. He encouraged the church to harness digital tools to reach people where they are. He urged the church to integrate artificial intelligence strategically and ethically. He stressed the call to "make disciples of all nations" includes online because that is where most people are.
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