The National Identity Management Commission, NIMC has issued a stern warning to Nigerians against selling or sharing their personal data, including the National Identification Number, NIN, following recent revelations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
In a statement signed by Head of Corporate Communications at NIMC, Dr. Kayode Adegoke, the Commission expressed deep concern over reports that some individuals, particularly young Nigerians, are allegedly buying and reselling NIN data for financial gain.
The EFCC had earlier disclosed that “this fraud scheme is largely driven by an army of young Nigerians offering a paltry payment of between ₦1,500 and ₦2,000 to victims in exchange for their personal information, which is then sold to some Fintech institutions for up to ₦5,000.”
Describing the trend as a major security threat with far-reaching consequences, NIMC reiterated that it would not be held liable for any misuse of personal data voluntarily shared by individuals or their proxies for monetary inducement.
“The Commission wishes to state clearly that it will not be held responsible for any personal information shared by an individual directly or by proxy for the purpose of financial gain or inducement,” the statement read.
NIMC reminded Nigerians that it has consistently warned against disclosing their NIN or personal data to unauthorized persons or organizations. It also emphasized that all service providers must verify NINs before granting access to any service.
To further enhance data protection, the Commission urged the public to download and use the NINAuth App, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The app offers benefits such as greater control over personal data, enhanced security, and privacy features.
The Commission concluded by calling on Nigerians to take personal data privacy seriously and avoid being complicit in activities that could compromise national security.