CBN Warns Public Against Fraudulent Online Messages and Account Hacking
By Patience Ikpeme
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a warning to the public regarding a surge in fraudulent emails, messages, and online advertisements designed to look like official bank communications.
These deceptive tools are being used by criminals to spread misinformation and gain unauthorized access to the bank accounts of unsuspecting Nigerians.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Mrs. Hakama Sidi-Ali, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, noted that these scammers are using increasingly sophisticated methods to trick individuals. She explained that the messages often contain links that lead to malicious websites.
“These fraudulent messages, which prompt recipients to click links, peddle false information about the Bank’s leadership, licensing, and policy issues, and are intended to hack personal accounts,” Sidi-Ali said.
The apex bank made it clear that its official and only website is www.cbn.gov.ng. It advised citizens to stay cautious and avoid interacting with any digital content that asks for sensitive information or promises rewards in the name of the bank.
To stay safe, the bank told Nigerians to stop clicking on suspicious links and to never share personal data on websites that have not been verified.
The bank also urged the public to cross-check any news or policy updates they receive. This can be done by visiting the official CBN website or checking reputable national news outlets. If anyone encounters a suspicious email or website claiming to be the bank, they should report it immediately to law enforcement agencies.
The CBN stated that it is working hard to keep the Nigerian financial system secure, stressing that “the Bank is currently upgrading its cybersecurity measures and is working closely with other government agencies to stop digital fraudsters from targeting the public.”
