The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has raised alarm over rise in phishing activities, explaining how fraudsters impersonate reputable government organisations to harvest people’s personal information.
The Commission made the disclosure on Tuesday in a press statement by its spokesman, Dele Oyewale, explaining that the targeted audience are unsuspecting individuals on digital platforms.
Oyewale said: “In recent months, the Commission has observed a surge in fraudulent schemes designed to deceive individuals into disclosing sensitive personal information, including financial details, through deceptive emails, text messages, social media messengers and fake websites.
“These phishing perpetrators often impersonate reputable organisations, financial institutions or government agencies, exploiting the trust of their victims for illicit gains.”
The spokesman advised the general public to take caution when encountering unsolicited communications or unfamiliar links, especially those requesting sensitive information or promising financial benefits.
He also said individuals need to verify the authenticity of any communication (message) or website before divulging personal details or engaging in financial transactions.
Oyewale also said: “The Commission urges the public to promptly report any suspected phishing attempt or fraudulent activity to its nearest Zonal Command or the nearest law enforcement agency.
“Timely reporting enables swift action to be taken in order to disrupt criminal operations and protect potential victims from financial losses and identity theft. For this purpose and other enquiries, call the EFCC hotline: +2348093322644 or send a message to the official email address : info@efcc.gov.ng.”
EFCC Raises Alarm Over Fraudsters Impersonating Govt Agencies To Harvest People’s Information is first published on The Whistler Newspaper