By Adedapo Adesanya
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has warned bank customers on methods used by cyber-fraudsters to defraud Nigerians who are taking advantage of digital banking options to carry out transactions during this current COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement released by the Director, Corporate Communications, CBN, Mr Isaac Okorafor, on Monday, it said Internet fraudsters are stealing sensitive information to gain unauthorized access to computers or mobile devices of commercial bank customers using various techniques.
“This trend is not peculiar to Nigeria as there has been a rise in COVID-19-related cybercriminal activities all over the world.
“Our priority is to ensure that Nigerian banking customers are aware of the ongoing trend to prevent them from falling victim to such cybercrimes.” Mr Okoroafor said.
He said some of the methods used by these perpetrators include phishing campaigns, promise of relief packages and impersonation to defraud banks customers.
On phishing techniques, the CBN spokesperson noted, “These cyber-criminals send out emails claiming to be from health organizations such as the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO).
“The email may contain a link which, if clicked, steals login credentials or other confidential information from the victim’s computer or mobile device.”
Speaking on how they use promise of relief packages, he said, “Cyber-criminals have also been sending messages via social media or emails asking people to click on links to register in order to get their COVID-19 relief packages from the Government or other organisations.
“They simply use this to get confidential information from unwary victims. Relief package scams also come in the form of phone calls asking people to provide their banking details to receive relief packages.”
Another method, according to the apex bank spokesman, is through impersonation, which involve cyber-criminals placing calls to unsuspecting individuals claiming to be the staff of certain banks and asking them to get mobile apps that would help them get through this pandemic period.
“Such mobile apps are, however, used to steal information from the victims’ mobile phones among other things. Criminals have also produced COVID-19 maps, which steal information in the background,” he warned.
The CBN then noted that it was important for people to follow certain steps in order not to fall victim to such criminal activities.
“To ensure that bank customers and citizens do not fall victim to these cyber-crimes, please observe the following precautions, beware of and verify emails or phone calls claiming to be from NCDC, WHO or Government, especially when such emails request your banking information or to click on a link. Visit official websites of relevant organizations for desired information,” Mr Okoroafor added.
