getMotiff
All guides

If your details are being used in scams

When your phone number or email turns up in leaks or scam reports, expect more calls, texts and emails. Some may pretend to be your bank, a delivery company, a government grant or a relative. Some may even use your own number to reach the people you know.

Do this first

  1. Slow down. Scams push you to act fast. A real bank or company will let you hang up and call back.
  2. Never share an OTP, PIN, password, card number or your BVN. No genuine caller needs them.
  3. Don't tap links or open attachments in unexpected messages. Open the official app or type the website address yourself.
  4. If someone asks for money, call the person on a number you already know. Use a different phone or app from the one they contacted you on.
  5. Check payments in your bank app, not in a text. Fake credit alerts are used to trick sellers into handing over goods.

Common tricks to recognise

  • "I sent money to you by mistake." Check your bank app. If nothing arrived, there is nothing to return. If money did arrive, don't send it back yourself. Ask your bank how to return it.
  • "I sent my code to your number by mistake." This is an attempt to take over your WhatsApp. Never forward a code you receive.
  • Grants, palliatives and "BVN update" offers. Real programmes don't ask you to pay a fee or share an OTP.
  • Investment and job offers that promise quick, guaranteed returns.

If you already replied or clicked

  1. Call your bank using the number on your card or in the official app. Tell them what you shared.
  2. Change the password of any account you entered it into, starting with your email.
  3. Look at your recent transactions and your email's sent folder.
  4. Report it to the police, or to the EFCC for online fraud, if you lost money or details.

If your number is being used to scam others

  • Tell your contacts, in person or by a call, that messages from you asking for money or codes may not be you.
  • Report the messages to your network operator.

Going forward

  • Keep your number and email off public profiles and forms where you can.
  • Use a separate email for shopping and sign-ups than for your bank.
  • Turn on app-based two-step sign-in for your email, and two-step verification in WhatsApp.