Nigeria: NITDA Warns of Unverified Instant Loan Platforms

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has raised concerns over the need for the general public to beware of unverified instant loan apps and platforms, saying that some of them are fraudulent.

Mrs Hadiza Umar, Head, Corporate Affairs and External Relations of NITDA, gave the warning on Tuesday in a statement issued in Abuja.

Umar said that it is important for people to become aware of the fraudulent activities of some Instant Loan Apps as the month of October is being marked globally as Cyber Security Awareness month.

She observed that people in need of money may be tempted by the promise of hassle-free microfinance software that guarantees loans in minutes and does not require any paperwork or verification of signatures.

Umar said: “Users must exercise caution, weigh the risks and hazards involved with such offers, particularly when they pose a serious risk to their lives.

“Users need to be warned that many Instant Loan Apps use harsh, unethical methods to recover money.’’

She further said that when individual downloads such apps, in most cases, they need to give permission to the app to access their contact numbers, pictures, as well as location, among other requirements.

According to her, in cases where a borrower delays or defaults in payments, the money lenders employ high-pressure tactics.

”They deploy measures like constant harassment and threats, sending notices, warnings to the borrower’s contacts and even threatening severe legal actions,” Umar said.

She said that for people to stay secure against such platforms, they need to avoid downloading unregistered loan-based applications.

“If you must download, carry out a background check on the loan company running the app, read and understand their terms and conditions before you accept.

“Be cautious, as your contact details, photographs and location can be copied by these money lenders.

“Ensure that these money lenders are Nigerian Data Protection Regulation (NDPR) compliant,’’ Umar urged.

She advised the general public to reach out to the Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team (CERRT) unit of the agency via email on cerrt@nitda.gov.ng, web address on www.cerrt.ng or phone on +234 8178774580.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month marked in Oct. is a collaboration between government and private industry to raise awareness about digital security.

The month is also used to empower citizens to protect their personal data from digital forms of crime.