NITDA alerts Nigerians to malware stealing banking details

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has alerted Nigerians to a dangerous banking malware that targets users worldwide through complex phishing schemes.

The warning was issued by NITDA’s Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team via social media. The agency described the new version of Grandoreiro as a serious threat that uses sophisticated methods to steal sensitive information.

According to the agency, the malware employs “advanced techniques, including screen overlay attacks and remote device control, to steal sensitive information such as banking credentials and personal data.”

NITDA explained that the malware primarily spreads through phishing emails and fraudulent websites. These deceptive platforms trick victims into downloading malicious software by disguising it as legitimate updates or documents. Once installed, the malware can bypass security protections, giving attackers unauthorized access to users’ devices. The agency warned that this could result in significant financial losses and potential identity theft.

The agency urged the public to exercise caution and adopt recommended security measures to mitigate the risk. “Cyber threats like Grandoreiro are evolving, and users need to stay vigilant and adopt robust security practices to protect their information,” the agency advised.

NITDA recommended avoiding links and attachments from unknown emails, downloading software only from trusted sources, and enabling multifactor authentication for online banking and financial accounts.

The agency also emphasised the importance of keeping antivirus software updated, avoiding public Wi-Fi for financial transactions, and regularly monitoring bank accounts for unauthorized activities.

Meanwhile, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, has urged National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, who are serving as Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) Initiative champions to double their efforts in training and sensitising Nigerians on the transformative potential of digital literacy in shaping Nigeria’s future.

The gathering, which is one of the flagship programmes under NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0), focuses on grassroots engagement and seeks to provide underserved communities with essential digital knowledge, empowering individuals to access opportunities in an increasingly digitally driven world.

In his keynote address, Inuwa said, “You are the ambassadors of our shared vision to empower every Nigerian with the knowledge needed to navigate and excel in the digital economy. Your dedication and resilience will ensure that no Nigerian is left behind as we build a technologically driven, globally competitive economy.”

While reminding the champions of their critical role in actualising NITDA’s ambition to achieve the short-term target of 70 per cent digital literacy by 2027, and 95 per cent by 2030, Inuwa emphasised that the goal inspires confidence, builds capacity, and paves the way for a digital inclusive society.

He added that the DL4ALL initiative aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovation-driven economic growth, youth empowerment, and national prosperity.

Inuwa emphasised the far-reaching impact of the initiative, noting “This programme is not just an investment in individuals; it is an investment in our collective future. A digitally skilled workforce will not only transform our economy but also position Nigeria as a leader in the global knowledge economy.”

“Through your efforts, we will empower millions of Nigerians to unlock their potential, embrace innovation, and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

“This is our collective responsibility. The digital future we envision for Nigeria begins with the work you will do in your communities. Let us commit ourselves to this cause, knowing that the seeds we plant today will yield a harvest of opportunities for generations to come,” he added. He affirmed NITDA’s commitment to leading Nigeria’s digital transformation and fostering a future where no citizen is left behind.

The DG’s remarks were met with enthusiasm by the champions, who expressed their readiness to serve as change agents in their assigned communities. For many, the initiative represents an opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives while gaining experience in leadership and community engagement.

As the champions prepare for deployment to various communities across Nigeria, their responsibilities are to impart knowledge, sensitise communities about the benefits of digital skills in everyday life, including financial inclusion through digital banking, leveraging e-commerce platforms for small businesses, and understanding cybersecurity essentials to navigate the digital space safely.