The Central Bank of Nigeria has issued a strong warning to Nigerians over the growing circulation of fake messages and online communications falsely presented as originating from the Bank.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the apex bank raised concern about a noticeable rise in fraudulent emails, text messages, and social media posts crafted to deceive members of the public. These messages are designed to appear legitimate, often mimicking official communication channels of the Bank in an attempt to gain the trust of unsuspecting individuals.
According to the Bank, many of these fraudulent messages contain suspicious links or prompts that encourage recipients to click, download attachments, or provide sensitive information. Once engaged, such links can compromise personal data, grant unauthorized access to financial accounts, or expose victims to identity theft and financial loss.
The Bank also noted that these deceptive communications frequently include false claims relating to its leadership, regulatory activities, licensing processes, and policy decisions. By spreading misinformation, fraudsters aim to create confusion and exploit the credibility of the institution for personal gain.
Reiterating its commitment to protecting the public, the Central Bank advised Nigerians to exercise a high level of caution when dealing with unsolicited messages, especially those requesting confidential or financial details. It emphasized that individuals should never disclose personal information such as bank account numbers, passwords, card details, or verification codes on unverified platforms or through unknown links.
The Bank further encouraged the public to independently verify any information relating to its operations through official and trusted channels. It stressed that its verified website and credible media outlets remain the most reliable sources for accurate updates and announcements.
In addition, Nigerians were urged to promptly report any suspicious messages, emails, phone calls, or websites to relevant law enforcement agencies. Early reporting, the Bank noted, is critical in helping authorities track fraudulent activities, prevent further scams, and protect other potential victims.
As part of its broader efforts to combat cybercrime, the Central Bank stated that it continues to strengthen its cybersecurity infrastructure. This includes working closely with security agencies, financial institutions, and technology partners to enhance monitoring systems, detect threats early, and safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s financial system.
The Bank reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public trust and ensuring that the nation’s banking environment remains secure, resilient, and protected against evolving digital threats.
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