By Mary Izuaka

 

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has raised an alarm over the circulation of fraudulent messages, emails, and online communications falsely claiming to originate from the bank.

In a public notice dated 21 April and signed by the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali, the apex bank warned that the messages are designed to mislead the public and compromise personal data.

“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,” the bank said.

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The CBN said that its only official website remains www.cbn.gov.ng.

It urged members of the public to strongly refrain from clicking links or sharing personal information on suspicious websites.

“Verify the authenticity of all CBN communications through the official website and recognised media outlets. Report any suspected fraudulent site, email, or message to law enforcement authorities,” it said.

The CBN said it remains fully committed to safeguarding the Nigerian financial system and continues to strengthen its cybersecurity frameworks in collaboration with relevant agencies to protect the public against digital fraud.