The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a fresh warning to Nigerians over a surge in fraudulent messages and cyberattack attempts targeting unsuspecting individuals across digital platforms.
In a statement released late Tuesday by its acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, the apex bank said it had observed an increasing circulation of fake emails, messages, and online content falsely linked to the institution.
According to the CBN, the fraudulent communications are deliberately crafted to mislead the public and extract sensitive personal and financial information from victims.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria wishes to alert members of the public to the circulation of fraudulent messages, emails, and online communications purporting to originate from or be associated with the Bank,” the statement said.
The bank explained that such messages often prompt recipients to click on malicious links or spread false claims regarding its leadership, licensing processes, and policy directions, all in a bid to compromise users’ data and hack personal accounts.
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It stressed that cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated, exploiting digital channels to spread misinformation and gain unauthorised access to financial information.
The apex bank urged Nigerians to rely strictly on verified sources, noting that its official website remains the primary and most reliable platform for authentic information regarding its activities.
“The official website of the Central Bank of Nigeria remains www.cbn.gov.ng,” it stated, cautioning against engagement with unsolicited communications and unfamiliar online platforms.
To reduce exposure to cyber threats, the CBN advised the public to avoid clicking suspicious links or disclosing personal or financial details on unverified websites, warning that such actions could lead to identity theft and financial losses.
It also called on Nigerians to independently verify any information attributed to the bank through credible channels before taking action.
The bank further urged the public to report suspected fraudulent activities to law enforcement agencies, emphasising the importance of collective vigilance in combating cybercrime.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s financial system, the CBN said it is strengthening its cybersecurity frameworks in collaboration with relevant agencies.
