The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has warned Nigerians over a surge in fraudulent messages, emails and online communications targeting unsuspecting individuals in a bid to gain unauthorised access to their bank accounts.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, the apex bank said the deceptive messages are crafted to mislead recipients, harvest sensitive information and circulate false claims about the bank’s leadership and operations.

According to the CBN, the scam messages typically urge recipients to click on suspicious links and disclose confidential details under the pretext of official directives.

“These fraudulent messages, which prompt recipients to click links, peddle false information about the Bank’s leadership, licensing, and policy issues, are intended to hack personal accounts,” the statement said.

The bank stressed that its only official website remains www.cbn.gov.ng and advised the public to verify any communication through authorised channels.

It cautioned Nigerians against engaging with unverified links or sharing personal and financial information on dubious platforms, noting that such actions could expose them to cyber fraud.

The CBN also urged members of the public to report suspicious messages, emails or websites to appropriate law enforcement agencies.

Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the financial system, the apex bank said it is enhancing its cybersecurity infrastructure in collaboration with security agencies to curb digital financial crimes.

CBN raises alarm on fake emails, links used to hack bank accounts