Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information—like your name, National Identity Number (NIN), or Bank Verification Number (BVN)—to commit fraud. In Nigeria, this is a growing problem because once a criminal has your “identity,” they can open bank accounts, take out loans in your name, or even buy things that you will be asked to pay for later. Avoiding identity theft in Nigeria requires being very careful about who you trust with your data.
Shielding Your Personal Data
The biggest “gold mine” for identity thieves in Nigeria today is your BVN and NIN. Treat these numbers like your private property. You should only provide them to official institutions like your bank or a government office. Be wary of “recruitment” websites or “grant” applications on social media that ask for your NIN and BVN upfront. Most of these are traps designed to harvest your data.
Another common way identity is stolen is through “SIM swapping.” If your phone suddenly loses signal for a long time and you can’t make calls, someone might be trying to “swap” your SIM card to gain access to your bank alerts. If this happens, call your network provider immediately from another phone to block your line. Also, never throw away old bank statements or documents with your address into the trash without shredding or tearing them into tiny pieces. Scavengers often look through trash for such information.
Your identity is your most valuable asset in the digital age. Avoiding identity theft in Nigeria is about being “information-stingy.” Don’t post your birthday, home address, or phone number too freely on Facebook or Instagram. The less the world knows about your private details, the safer you are. If you suspect your identity has been stolen, report it to the police and your bank immediately to prevent further damage.
