CBN warned Nigerians about cyber hackers circulating fake messages and emails aimed at stealing personal information and accounts.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a public warning about increasing cyberattack attempts targeting the personal accounts of Nigerians through fraudulent messages and emails falsely claiming to originate from the bank.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by Hakama Sidi Ali, Acting Director of Corporate Communications, the apex bank said cybercriminals are deploying deceptive tactics designed to mislead unsuspecting individuals and compromise sensitive personal information.
According to the CBN, the fraudulent communications—circulating via email and online platforms—often urge recipients to click on suspicious links. These messages also contain false claims related to the bank’s leadership, licensing operations, and policy decisions, all aimed at creating credibility and luring victims.
“The official website of the Central Bank of Nigeria remains www.cbn.gov.ng. Members of the public are strongly advised to refrain from clicking links or sharing personal information on suspicious websites,” the statement said.
The bank urged Nigerians to verify the authenticity of any communication attributed to the CBN through its official website or trusted media outlets. It also advised the public to report any suspicious emails, messages, or websites to law enforcement authorities for prompt investigation.
Reaffirming its commitment to financial system security, the CBN stated that it is strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure in collaboration with relevant agencies to better protect citizens from digital fraud.
The warning comes amid a series of recent cybersecurity concerns involving major institutions. On April 15, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) confirmed a cyberattack on its information systems. Earlier, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) announced an investigation into an alleged data breach involving Remita Payment Services Ltd., Sterling Bank, and other entities.
Authorities say these developments underscore the growing need for vigilance as cyber threats continue to evolve across Nigeria’s financial and digital landscape.
