The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has cautioned Nigerians against selling or sharing their personal details, including their National Identification Number (NIN), with fraudsters, warning that such actions could lead to serious consequences.
This follows a recent statement by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which revealed that fraudsters are paying unsuspecting Nigerians between ₦1,500 and ₦2,000 to obtain copies of their personal information and then selling the data to fintech companies for about ₦5,000.
In response, NIMC’s Head of Corporate Communications, Kayode Adegoke, described the act as a grave security risk with severe implications for NIN holders.
He stressed that NIMC would not be liable for any misuse of personal information shared by individuals, whether directly or indirectly, for financial inducement.
“Nigerians have been repeatedly warned not to disclose their NIN to unauthorized persons or organizations,” Adegoke stated. “Service providers must also ensure that any NIN presented is properly verified before granting access to services.”
He further encouraged the public to download the NINAuth App from the Apple iOS Store or Google Play Store to safeguard their NIN, control their personal data, and enjoy enhanced security and other benefits.