CBN alerts consumers to fraudulent messages, cybersecurity hack attempts

*The Central Bank of Nigeria alerts consumers of financial products and services, as well as members of the public to the circulation of fraudulent messages, e-mails, and online communications purporting to originate from, or be associated with the banking sector regulator

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has alerted consumers of financial products and services, as well as members of the public to the circulation of fraudulent messages, e-mails, and online communications purporting to originate from, or be associated with the Bank.

The CBN said such fraudulent messages, e-mails, and online communications are intended to misinform members of the public.

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Hakama Sidi-Ali (Mrs.), Acting Director of Corporate Communications at CBN, who noted this in a statement issued Tuesday, April 21, 2026, said such fraudulent messages, which prompt recipients to click links, peddle false information about the Bank’s leadership, licensing, and policy issues, were “intended to hack personal accounts.”

The statement also emphasised that the official Web site of the Central Bank of Nigeria remains www.cbn.gov.ng.

What consumers should do for protection

The banking sector regulator in the country, therefore, strongly urged members of the public to do the following for protection in the online space:

• Refrain from clicking links or sharing personal information on suspicious Web sites.
• 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.

The Bank’s Acting Director of Corporate Communications further stated: “The CBN 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.”