CBN Alerts Nigerians Over Surge in Fraudulent Messages Targeting Bank Accounts Amid Rising Cyber Threats
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has issued a fresh public warning over the circulation of fraudulent messages and deceptive online links being used by cybercriminals to gain unauthorized access to individuals’ bank accounts and personal data.
In a press statement dated April 21, 2026, and released on Wednesday, April 22, the warning was signed by the Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi Ali. The apex bank raised concerns that scammers are increasingly impersonating official channels in an attempt to mislead unsuspecting members of the public.
Fraudulent schemes mimicking official CBN communications
According to the CBN, the fraudulent activities involve the dissemination of fake emails and online messages that falsely claim to originate from the bank or are linked to its operations. These messages are designed to appear credible, often referencing the institution’s leadership, licensing processes, or policy updates in order to manipulate recipients.
The bank explained that the intent behind these schemes is to trick users into clicking malicious links that can compromise sensitive financial and personal information.
“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 statement noted.
Official communication channels emphasized
Reiterating its communication standards, the CBN stressed that its official website remains the most reliable source for verified information. The bank urged the public to disregard any unsolicited messages requesting personal or financial details.
It further advised Nigerians to exercise caution by avoiding suspicious links, refraining from sharing sensitive information online, and verifying any communication purportedly from the apex bank through its official platforms or recognised media outlets.
Broader cybersecurity concerns across government institutions
The warning comes at a time of heightened concern over cyberattacks targeting critical public institutions in Nigeria. Just days earlier, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) temporarily shut down its online portal between April 17 and April 20, 2026, following a reported cybersecurity incident.
The disruption raised alarm after indications emerged that as many as 25 million documents may have been compromised through unauthorized access to its systems. In response, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission launched a formal investigation into the breach, citing potential risks to both corporate and personal data.
Growing sophistication of cyber threats
Cybersecurity experts have repeatedly warned that digital threats are becoming more advanced, especially as public institutions and financial systems increasingly rely on online infrastructure.
In June 2025, the CBN had already cautioned banks and fintech operators to strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks as Nigeria advances toward broader adoption of open banking systems.
Beyond Nigeria, global trends also reflect escalating risks. A recent report by the Federal Bureau of Investigation highlighted that cybercrime cases involving artificial intelligence contributed to losses exceeding $893 million in 2025. The report also noted that complaints were received from more than 200 countries, with total global losses estimated at $1.6 billion. Nigeria ranked among the top 15 most affected countries, recording 1,219 complaints.
Heightened vigilance urged
With cyber fraud schemes becoming increasingly sophisticated, authorities continue to emphasize public awareness as a key line of defense. The CBN’s latest advisory reinforces the need for vigilance, especially as attackers refine tactics to exploit trust in official communications.
For now, the bank maintains that strict adherence to verified channels and cautious online behavior remain essential in safeguarding financial information in an increasingly digital banking environment.