Nigeria Faces Escalating Cybersecurity Threats in 2025: CSEAN Warns of Crypto Scams, AI-Driven Attacks

Nigeria’s cybersecurity landscape is bracing for intensified threats in 2025, with cryptocurrency scams and AI-powered cyberattacks emerging as primary risks, according to the latest report from the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN).

The report, Nigeria Cyber Threat Forecast 2025, details key vulnerabilities in the country’s digital space and urges immediate intervention from the government, businesses, and civil society to strengthen cybersecurity frameworks.

Surge in Crypto-Related Scams

CSEAN warns that rising cryptocurrency prices and a growing number of inexperienced investors will fuel an increase in crypto scams. Cybercriminals are expected to exploit this trend using Ponzi schemes, fraudulent crypto exchanges, and deceptive social media campaigns, resulting in significant financial losses.

AI-Powered Cyber Threats on the Rise

The report highlights the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in cyberattacks, with criminals deploying AI-generated deepfakes and other advanced techniques to:

• Execute sophisticated phishing attacks targeting financial institutions and individuals.
• Manipulate victims through social engineering tactics.
• Conduct romance scams and sextortion schemes.
• Spread misinformation and fake news to influence public perception.

“These evolving cyber threats will undermine trust and pose significant risks to individuals and businesses alike,” the report states.

Other Emerging Cyber Risks

Beyond AI-powered attacks and crypto fraud, CSEAN also warns of:

• Insider threats from employees who may inadvertently or intentionally compromise security.
• Data breaches due to weak security frameworks in organizations.
• Exploitation of unlinked fintech accounts, creating vulnerabilities in financial systems.
• Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) targeting critical sectors such as banking, telecommunications, and energy.

Weak Cybercrime Enforcement Poses Challenges

CSEAN identifies poor enforcement of Nigeria’s amended Cybercrime Act (2024) as a key barrier to tackling these threats. Additionally, the ongoing “Japa” migration trend—where skilled cybersecurity professionals leave the country—has weakened Nigeria’s ability to combat cyber risks effectively.

Urgent Call to Strengthen Nigeria’s Cyber Defenses

CSEAN President, Ade Shoyinka, emphasized the need for a proactive, multi-stakeholder approach to cybersecurity. The report outlines critical recommendations, including:

• Deploying AI-driven threat detection systems for real-time cyber threat mitigation.
• Implementing continuous cybersecurity training programs to minimize insider threats.
• Enhancing Know-Your-Customer (KYC) protocols in the fintech sector to prevent fraud.
• Strengthening cybercrime enforcement through increased resource allocation and international collaboration.

By taking decisive action now, Nigeria can enhance its cybersecurity resilience, protect critical digital infrastructure, and safeguard its citizens in an increasingly interconnected world.