The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has alerted Nigerians to be wary of the eNaira scam scheme by cybercriminals.
After the launch of the continent’s first digital currency, on Oct. 25, 2021, by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), cybercriminals have now deployed means to defraud people through a frivolous scheme.
According to NITDA, criminals try to get sensitive information such as NIN and corresponding phone numbers through the link to defraud unsuspecting victims.”
The scheme, which the criminals penetrate through SMS broadcast with links attached claims that:
“Central Bank through the directives of the Minister of Finance is disbursing 50 billion eNaira currency to citizens who are willing to register and get the eNaira wallet.”
However, the agency recommended that the following precautions should be adhered to:
- Visit the only official website of government agencies to confirm the authenticity of the scheme.
- Government scheme/grant application and information are free. Do not make payment in any form.
- Be wary of sms broadcasts, classified ads, and fake websites that tout free grants and provide a link to click.
- Do not disclose your personal information and financial details
- Avoid clicking unknown links