Rising Cyber Threats: How the Federal Government Plans to Tackle the Looming Crisis
The Nigerian Federal Government has raised an alarm over a significant increase in cyber threats targeting individuals and businesses.
Since July 2023, the Nigeria Computer and Emergency Response Team (ngCERT) has issued numerous advisories regarding new attack methods and vulnerabilities, highlighting that 22 alerts were released in 2024 alone.
The rise in cybercrime is attributed to several factors, including the country’s economic challenges, which have made illicit online activities more appealing to many, particularly young people.
High unemployment rates and inflation create an environment where some individuals see cybercrime as a viable alternative to traditional jobs.
Notably, Nigeria has been identified as one of the top countries affected by cybercrime, ranking fifth globally in such activities.
As cyber threats continue to escalate, the government emphasizes the need for robust protective measures and collaboration among stakeholders to effectively combat these risks.