Online Scams & Fraud in Nigeria
Though Nigeria has been known for its infamous scammers, its citizens continue to suffer at the hands of the scammers. Both the government and other organizations have been stepping up efforts to raise awareness and protect people from scams.
Read on to find out more about what to do when you get scammed in Nigeria, where you can report and where to get the support you need.
Scam Statistics in Nigeria
The key statistics on online fraud in Nigeria, according to the Global Anti Scam Alliance.
| 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |
| Population | 198.4 million | 200.9million | 206 Million | 211 million |
| Internet Penetration | 38% | 63% | 61% | 73% |
| # of Scams | 37,817 | 61,500 | 500,000 | |
| Scams / 1,000 | 0.2 | 0.3 | 2.37 | |
| Money Lost | €86 million | €10.7 million | € 161 million | |
| Money Lost / Capita | € 0.43 | € 0.05 | € 0,76 | |
| Money Lost / Report | € 2,264 | € 175 | € 322 |
The figures in the table will differ strongly per year as various sources have been used, pending on availability.
Where Can I Report a Scam in Nigeria?
There are everal places you can report a scam in Nigeria. Here are some of them;
- The Nigeria Police Special Fraud Unit-Report your serious fraud to the police through email; report@specialfraudunit.org.ng, pro@specialfraudunit.org.ng or through Whatsapp 08127609914, Voice Call/SMS 07082276895
- Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (E.F.C.C.)- Report to the EFCC about financial-related scams. Visit their offices near you or write them an email at info@efcc.gov.ng, or through the Eagle Eye App.
- Scamwatch Nigeria- They raise awareness against scams and you can report to them various scams and cybercrime.
How to Report a Scam in Nigeria
Reporting a scam is crucial. At the moment, only 7% of all scams are reported. As a result, only 0.05% of all cybercriminals are caught. Reporting online fraud is not only essential if you want to try and get your money back. It is also needed to help law enforcement fight scammers better.
- Gather info: Collect all information about the suspected fraud including the name, telephone, key web pages, emails, IP address, and any other relevant information. This is needed to file a complete report.
- Report the incident: Always report to your local law enforcement and note the file number they might provide for your fraud report for future reference.
- Stop the Money: Report the incident to the financial institution that transferred the money such as your bank, Paypal, credit card company, or the Internet payment service provider.
- Protect yourself: Scammers often contact you again. Sometimes with the same scam. Sometimes to help you “recover your money”. Consider changing your email address/phone number. Also, install the ScamAdviser browser extension to warn you of scams.
Our article “How and Where to Report a Scam” gives you more detail and tips on how you can best report online fraud.
Scam Victim Support in Nigeria
We are unaware of a fraud victim support organization in Nigeria. Please do your due diligence when searching for victims' support.
How to Check for a Scam in Nigeria
Of course, you can always check for scams on ScamAdviser.com. However, there are several other sources where you can check if a website is registered as a company and if it can offer financial, gambling, or other regulated services as well. Here are other ways you can check for scams in Nigeria;
- The Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team ((NGCERT)- Offers alerts and advisories against scams of all manners.
- The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)- You can always check investment scams and other financial-related frauds.
Anti-Scam Organizations & Consumer Authorities
Several organizations are determined to help raise awareness about scams in Nigeria. Here are some of them;
- CyberSafe Foundation- As the name suggests, they strive to create safe internet for everyone accessing it in Nigeria.
- The Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement Service (NIBSS)- Monitors fraud between banks and offers tips to make the banking system in Nigeria better.
Popular Scams in Nigeria
Immigration Scams
Nigeria has recently faced a number of difficulties, including insecurity, the economic downturn, and unemployment, among others. Due to these difficulties, more people are leaving their home countries in search of better opportunities overseas, especially in Europe and North America. Tragically, this has also resulted in a sharp rise in immigration frauds that prey on needy Nigerians looking to flee the country.
Although there are various types of immigration fraud, the most prevalent one is the assurance of simple visas and employment possibilities abroad. On websites, in emails, and on social media, these scams are frequently promoted. Scammers typically demand an upfront payment or a processing fee in exchange for a promise to find the victim a job and a visa.
The use of phony travel agencies is another type of immigration fraud. These organizations promise to help with the processing of visas and other travel needs while offering travel packages and excursion services to foreign nations. However, fraudulent visas, stolen identities, or unauthorized travel documents are frequently obtained by victims, with serious repercussions.
Conducting careful research and getting guidance from reliable sources is essential if you want to avoid being a victim of immigration scams. Utilizing the services of authorized immigration agents or travel companies with a track record of processing visa applications and making travel arrangements successfully is also advised.
Scam News From Nigeria
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Top Safety Picks
Your Go-To Tools for Online SafetyDisclaimer: Some of the links here are affiliate links. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
- ScamAdviser App - iOS : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on iOS
- ScamAdviser App - Android : Your personal scam detector, on the go! Check website safety, report scams, and get instant alerts. Available on Android.
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