Banks Warn Nigerians of Sophisticated Cyber Scams Targeting Customer Accounts
Major Nigerian banks have issued urgent security alerts about new cybercrime tactics targeting customers through fake banking applications and deceptive online schemes.
Ecobank Nigeria led the warnings on Monday, November 10, highlighting the emergence of sophisticated scam methods that pose significant risks to account holders. The bank revealed that cybercriminals are deploying clone banking applications and fraudulent pop-ups designed to mirror legitimate banking platforms, enabling them to harvest sensitive user information including PINs, passwords, and one-time passwords (OTPs).
To protect customers, Ecobank outlined several security measures, urging users to: – Source applications exclusively from official stores like Google Play and Apple App Store – Exercise caution with suspicious links and pop-ups – Verify banking interface authenticity – Remove suspicious applications showing irregular behavior – Promptly report security concerns through Ecobank’s 24/7 assistance service
“Scammers are creating fake apps and pop-ups that look like real banking apps,” Ecobank warned in its advisory. “If you install them, they can access your phone and steal your PIN, password, and OTPs to make fraudulent fund transfers.”
Wema Bank joined the cautionary chorus, advising customers to verify communications through official channels: “Scam Alert! Never click on suspicious links or respond to strange messages claiming to be from Wema Bank. Always confirm through our official channels: 07000PURPLE or 08039003700. Stay safe. Stay alert.”
First Bank also emphasized customer vigilance, stating: “Being scam conscious cannot be overemphasized. Do not disclose your PINs, passwords, OTPs, or other personal banking details. FirstBank will never ask for these details or redirect you to WhatsApp or Telegram to handle complaints.”
These warnings come amid heightened concerns about cybercrime in Nigeria’s banking sector. In a related development, the Federal High Court in Abuja extended a freeze order on 818 bank accounts suspected of holding funds connected to a N10 billion cyber heist targeting Hope Payment Service Bank. The extension aims to facilitate the recovery of allegedly stolen funds.
The coordinated alerts from major banks underscore the growing sophistication of financial cyber threats in Nigeria and the critical need for customer awareness and security measures.
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