NIMC Exposes Fraudulent NIN Scheme, Issues Caution Against Exploitative Scams Targeting Nigerians

NIMC Exposes Fraudulent NIN Scheme, Issues Caution Against Exploitative Scams Targeting Nigerians

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has uncovered and is dismantling a syndicate issuing fake National Identity Numbers (NINs), raising alarm over widespread scams targeting unsuspecting Nigerians.……CONTINUE READING

In a press briefing in Abuja, NIMC Director General Abisoye Coker-Odusote revealed that several suspects involved in the fraudulent scheme have been apprehended and are currently facing prosecution.

The revelation comes after a complaint from a customer who reported paying N120,000 to modify her birth certificate, falling victim to individuals posing as NIMC employees offering fraudulent services.

Coker-Odusote emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating that the fake data never reached the official NIMC servers, eluding immediate detection and resulting in numerous Nigerians being scammed.

As of May 2024, the NIN database has enrolled over 107.34 million Nigerians, marking a significant increase from 104 million in December 2023.

The syndicate, operating under the guise of business vendors or cyber café operators, crafted links, developed software, and generated fake NINs, deceiving many into believing they were legitimate.

Further investigations identified additional suspects operating around NIMC’s annex office, with assurances that all perpetrators will face charges related to cybercrimes upon the conclusion of the investigation.

Expressing frustration with the ongoing extortion and data breaches, Coker-Odusote vowed to hold accountable those who exploit unsuspecting citizens, highlighting the emotional and financial toll on victims.

In one notable case, a woman was exploited for over N120,000 under the pretext of adjusting official documents, underscoring the severity of the scam operations and the urgent need for vigilance among Nigerians.