The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned business owners and residents of Ebonyi State to remain vigilant against cybercriminals at all times.
During an advocacy and sensitization programme organised by the commission at the Margaret Umahi International Market on Wednesday, with the theme “Shine Your Eyes-No Fall Mugu,” Commission Director of Consumer Affairs Bureau Umar Alkassin made the plea.
Alkassin warned the public to be suspicious of anyone or anything offering a deal that seems too good to be true, as it could be an attempt to steal their money.
Mr. Alkassin, who was represented by Clem Omeife, Head of Consumer Protection and Advocacy Unit, noted that the programme is an advocacy initiative on consumer protection through sensitization and knowledge on how to prevent falling victim to scammers.
He lamented the rising tendency of fraud conducted on telecom platforms (electronic fraud) throughout important areas of the Nigerian economy, which is a growing problem as the telecom industry develops.
The danger that results from the widespread use of new mobile money, electronic banking, and payment systems has been found to cost the government enormous sums of money.
“Cybercriminals are increasingly focusing on telecommunications networks in an effort to steal sensitive customer information and disrupt service. Many victims of SIM swaps and USSD e-payment frauds end up losing a lot of money.
“Electronic fraud has been identified as the biggest risk to the sector by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN),” he added. “The CBN has embraced a range of electronic payment solutions, including Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBBS) Instant Payment, and mobile banking.”
He did, however, point out that the country’s social and economic landscape has been profoundly altered for the better through the creation and implementation of solid infrastructure to support innovative technologies and services.
To paraphrase, “today, telecom consumers are enjoying broadband and other services driven by the quest to establish a digital economy.”
He went on to say that many individuals were woefully unaware of how easily their bank accounts could be emptied if they lost their phones to crooks.
