The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians about fraudulent messages, emails, and online communications falsely linked to the institution. The apex bank emphasized that these communications are designed to mislead recipients, spread false information, and compromise personal accounts.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Hakama Ali, Acting Director of Corporate Communications, the CBN urged the public to disregard such messages. The bank explained that the fraudulent content often contains misleading claims about its leadership, licensing, and policy decisions. Many of these messages also prompt recipients to click suspicious links, which are intended to facilitate hacking attempts.
The CBN stressed that its official website, www.cbn.gov.ng, remains the only reliable source of information. Nigerians were advised to verify the authenticity of any communication allegedly from the bank through its website or recognized media outlets. The bank cautioned against clicking links or sharing personal details on unauthorized platforms.
The statement further encouraged citizens to report suspected fraudulent sites, emails, or messages to law enforcement agencies. This, the bank noted, would help curb the spread of digital fraud and protect individuals from financial loss.
The CBN reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s financial system. It highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks in collaboration with relevant agencies. These measures aim to shield the public from online fraud and ensure the resilience of financial infrastructure against cyberattacks.
The warning comes amid increasing reports of cyber threats targeting both public and private organizations in Nigeria. In recent weeks, several institutions have faced alleged data breaches. These include the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Remita Payment Service Limited, and Sterling Bank.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) confirmed that investigations into these breaches are underway. The commission also issued a regulatory advisory to counter escalating threats to data security infrastructure. This advisory underscores the urgency of reinforcing digital defenses across critical sectors.
Cybercrime has become a growing challenge for Nigeria’s financial and corporate institutions. Fraudulent emails and phishing schemes remain common tactics used by cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting individuals. By impersonating trusted organizations such as the CBN, attackers attempt to gain access to sensitive information and disrupt financial operations.
The CBN’s latest advisory reflects a broader strategy to raise public awareness and encourage vigilance. It also signals the bank’s recognition of the evolving nature of cyber threats, which increasingly target both individuals and institutions.
