The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued an emergency warning to the public following a surge in sophisticated fraudulent messages and coordinated cybersecurity hack attempts designed to compromise personal bank accounts.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, the apex bank revealed that scammers are circulating fake emails and online communications that mimic official CBN correspondence. These messages often contain malicious links and spread misinformation regarding the Bank’s leadership, licensing, and policy updates.
The Threat: Phishing and Misinformation
According to the CBN, the primary goal of these fraudulent communications is to trick recipients into clicking links that allow hackers to gain unauthorized access to personal data and financial accounts.
The Bank specifically noted that the hackers are peddling “false information” about the CBN’s internal operations to create a sense of urgency or confusion among the public.
Official Safety Guidelines
The CBN’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, emphasized that the Bank’s only official website is **www.cbn.gov.ng**. To stay safe, the public is urged to follow these immediate steps:
STOP: Do not click on any links or share personal information on suspicious websites or social media prompts.
VERIFY: Cross-check any news or communication regarding the CBN through their official website or verified media outlets before taking action.
REPORT: Immediately report any suspicious emails, sites, or messages to law enforcement authorities.
CBN’s Response
The apex bank assured Nigerians that it is working closely with security and intelligence agencies to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks. “The CBN remains fully committed to safeguarding the Nigerian financial system,” the statement read, adding that measures are being intensified to protect the public from digital fraud.
Vigilance is advised. If you receive a message claiming to be from the CBN asking for account details or for you to click a link to “update policy information,” it is likely a scam.
For more updates, visit the official website: www.cbn.gov.ng
