(1) The Minister may declare that a computer, computer system or computer network is a protected system by notification in the Gazette.

(2) The Minister may authorize access to a protected system by or in writing.

(3) Until the Minister by Gazette publication declares a computer, computer system or computer network to be a protected system, the computer , computer system or computer network shall be treated as a “protected computer” if the computer, program or electronic record is used directly in connection with or for

(a) the security, defence or international relations of the country;

(b) the existence or identity of a confidential source of information related to the enforcement of criminal law;

(c) the provision of services directly related to communications infrastructure, banking and financial services, public utilities, public transportation or public key infrastructure;

(d) the protection of public safety and public health, including systems related to essential emergency services;

(e) foreign commerce or communication affecting a citizen of Ghana or business in which a citizen of Ghana or the Government has an interest; or

(f) the legislative, executive or judicial service, the public services and security agencies.

(4) A person who secures access or attempts to secure access to a protected system in contravention of the provisions of this section commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of not more than five thousand penalty units or imprisonment for a term of not more than ten years or to both.