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| DG/CEO, NIMC, Bisoye Coker-Odusote |
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians amid disturbing reports of personal data, including National Identification Numbers (NIN), being sold illegally.
This comes after the Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) revealed a fraudulent scheme in which unsuspecting individuals are coaxed into surrendering their personal information for small payments, only for these details to be sold to fintech companies at a higher price.
According to EFCC, young Nigerians are being exploited by fraudsters offering a meager ₦1,500 to ₦2,000 to hand over personal data, which is then sold for about ₦5,000 per record.
NIMC, in a press release signed by Dr. Kayode Adegoke, its Head, Corporate Communications, expressed grave concern over the security implications of this practice and its potentially severe consequences for NIN holders.
NIMC stressed that it cannot be held liable for any personal information shared by individuals, whether directly or through intermediaries, especially when done for financial gain.
The Commission therefore urges all Nigerians to refrain from disclosing their NIN to unauthorized persons or organizations and reminds service providers to verify every NIN presented before granting access to services.
In an effort to empower Nigerians and enhance security, NIMC recommends downloading the official NINAuth App, available on both Apple iOS and Google Play Store. The app, it explains, offers seamless benefits such as protection and control over one’s NIN and personal data, ensuring the privacy and safety of users.
The Commission calls on all Nigerians to be vigilant and take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information, stressing that prevention is the best defense against identity fraud and related crimes.
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