The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a public alert warning Nigerians to disregard fraudulent messages, emails and online communications falsely claiming to originate from or be linked to the bank.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Ali.
According to the apex bank, the fake messages are designed to mislead members of the public, spread false information and steal personal data.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria wishes to alert members of the public to the circulation of fraudulent messages, emails and online communications purporting to originate from or be associated with the Bank,” the statement said.
It added that the messages often urge recipients to click suspicious links while spreading false claims about the bank’s leadership, licensing and policy matters.
“These fraudulent messages, which prompt recipients to click links, peddle false information about the Bank’s leadership, licensing and policy issues, and are intended to hack personal accounts,” it stated.
The CBN urged Nigerians to rely only on information published on its official website and recognised media platforms.
It also advised the public not to click suspicious links or share personal information with unauthorised senders.
“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 bank said.
It further urged Nigerians to report suspected fraudulent websites, emails or messages to law enforcement authorities.
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The CBN added that it remains committed to protecting the Nigerian financial system and is strengthening its cybersecurity framework in collaboration with relevant agencies.
The warning comes amid rising cyber threats and alleged data breaches affecting both private and public institutions in Nigeria.
In recent weeks, the information systems of the Corporate Affairs Commission, Remita Payment Services Limited and Sterling Bank were among those reportedly targeted.
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission said it has commenced investigations into the alleged breaches and issued a regulatory advisory to address growing threats to data security.
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