The Association of Corporate Communication and Marketing Professionals in Banks (ACAMB) has urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against phishing scams involving fake bank alerts, cloned websites, and impersonation accounts.
ACAMB President, Jide Sipe, issued the warning after FactCheckAfrica debunked a fraudulent text message impersonating banks, revealing that its link directed users to a cloned internet banking website designed to steal login credentials, Bank Verification Numbers (BVNs), card details and transaction PINs.
Sipe said cybercriminals were becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder for customers to distinguish fraudulent messages from genuine bank communications.
He stressed that Nigerian banks would never request customers’ PINs, passwords, one-time passwords (OTPs) or BVNs through links.
The warning follows recent cybersecurity concerns in the banking sector. In June, Wema Bank suspended its engagements on X, formerly Twitter, amid reports of more than 70 fake accounts impersonating the bank and its ALAT platform.
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Similarly, Zenith Bank Plc disclosed in August that it was investigating unauthorised access to customer data linked to a global cyberattack.
While acknowledging banks’ efforts to strengthen fraud detection and customer protection, Sipe said security measures must be supported by increased public awareness and vigilance.
ACAMB advised customers to avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages requesting account verification or reactivation. It also warned against sharing sensitive information, including passwords, OTPs, card verification values (CVVs) and BVNs, in response to suspicious requests.
The association urged customers to verify questionable messages through their banks’ official mobile applications, verified social media accounts or published customer service numbers.
Customers who have entered their details on suspicious websites were advised to contact their banks immediately to secure their accounts and block affected cards where necessary.
ACAMB reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with banks, regulators and the media to combat cyber fraud and promote safer digital banking practices in Nigeria.
