Ghana Link Network Services Ltd, operator of the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS), has allayed fears of the shipping public regarding an alleged loss of data following a recent temporal system interruption.
In a statement to clarify concerns raised by The Transport Forum Ghana, the company assured stakeholders in the port sector that all documents and historical records are intact within the ICUMS system.
“We wish to assure the public and stakeholders in the shipping, logistics, and transport sectors that no data has been lost following the temporary system interruption on October 23, 2024. We acknowledge concerns raised by The Transport Forum Ghana LBG and take this opportunity to provide clarity on the matter,” the statement said.
According to the company, although some users experienced temporary access issues due to a scheduled system optimization, their data is securely stored and remains retrievable.
“The brief interruption in service was caused by a planned upgrade of storage infrastructure to improve system performance, data security, and storage efficiency.
The system event in October 23, 2024 was not a failure or deliberate shutdown; service was restored within a short period, and operations resumed as expected,” it further stated.
Compliance with data protection regulations
Ghana Link says it upholds the highest data protection and security standards, ensuring full compliance with Ghana’s Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843), and that there has been no breach of data confidentiality.
The recent upgrade was executed with the utmost care to enhance system reliability and security.
The company has therefore reassured freight forwarders, businesses, and stakeholders that all trade records, customs entries, and attached documents remain accessible through ICUMS.
Any users experiencing difficulties retrieving their files are encouraged to reach out to the ICUMS Support Team on 0302750140/0596921182 or email: [email protected] for assistance.
“Ghana Link and the GRA Customs Division remain committed to delivering a robust, secure, and efficient trade facilitation system. We will continue to engage stakeholders and ensure seamless operations within Ghana’s trade and customs ecosystem,” the statement emphasised.