Online safety is now indispensable, with Nigeria’s digital economy expanding through mobile banking, fintech platforms and wider internet access, more personal data is moving online.
At the same time, cybercrime is increasing and estimates put Nigeria’s annual losses from cyber-related fraud at about $500 million.
Globally, the World Economic Forum in its Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2026 warned that the spread of artificial intelligence and ongoing geopolitical stresses are making cyber attacks faster, cheaper and harder to detect.
Everyday gadgets, smartphones, laptops and smart home devices, are now prime targets because they store financial details, private messages and identity information.
For many Nigerians who rely on these devices for payments, business and communication, a single breach can lead to drained accounts, stolen identities or leaked data. Understanding the risks and adopting simple habits can make a real difference.
Common Cyber Threats in 2026
Cyber threats have grown more complex over the past three years, largely driven by AI tools that help criminals automate attacks.
In Nigeria, phishing is the most common tactic. Fraudulent messages often come through WhatsApp, SMS or cloned banking apps, tricking users into revealing passwords, card details or one-time codes.
The Deloitte Nigeria Cybersecurity Outlook 2026 also highlighted a steady rise in phishing and ransomware cases, fuelled by increased online transactions and digital payments.
Malware and spyware continue to infect phones and laptops, stealing data or locking users out of their own files. Ransomware attacks, where victims are asked to pay to regain access, have also increased.
Public Wi-Fi networks in airports, cafés and busy commercial centres in cities like Lagos remain a weak point, as attackers can intercept unencrypted data.
Another issue is AI-powered scams. Deepfake voice notes and cloned identities are being used to impersonate relatives, company executives or bank officials. These tactics make fraud harder to spot and more convincing.
Basic Security Habits Every User Should Adopt
Strong digital hygiene blocks many of the most common attacks. Start with strong, unique passwords for each account. Avoid reusing the same password across platforms. A trusted password manager can help generate and store complex passwords securely.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. Authentication apps or hardware keys are safer than SMS codes, as text messages can be intercepted. Even if a password is exposed, 2FA adds another barrier.
Regular software updates are also critical. Updates fix known security flaws that criminals exploit. This is especially important for widely used Android devices and popular apps.
These steps are simple, cost little or nothing, and significantly reduce exposure to phishing, malware and account takeovers.
Securing Phones, Laptops and Smart Devices
Smartphones and laptops handle most online activity and should be prioritised. Download apps only from official app stores. Fake banking or payment apps often contain hidden malware. Most phones allow users to block installations from unknown sources, keep that setting on.
On laptops, install reputable antivirus software and ensure the firewall is enabled. Avoid clicking unknown email attachments or suspicious links.
Smart TVs, fitness bands and other Internet of Things devices can also be entry points for attackers. Change default passwords immediately after purchase. Disable features you do not use. If possible, connect smart devices to a separate Wi-Fi network from the one used for banking and work.
Review app permissions regularly. Limit access to your camera, microphone, location and contacts unless necessary. With mobile money widely used in Nigeria, restricting permissions can prevent spyware from harvesting sensitive details.
Safe Internet Use and Online Behaviour
Many cyber incidents happen because users unknowingly share sensitive information. Always double-check links before clicking. Look closely at website addresses and be wary of urgent requests for payment or confidential data.
On social media, adjust privacy settings to control who sees your posts. Avoid sharing real-time location updates or financial information.
When shopping or banking online, use secure websites with “https” and a padlock icon in the address bar. Avoid conducting financial transactions on public Wi-Fi. Use mobile data or a trusted virtual private network instead.
With AI-driven scams on the rise, confirm unusual financial requests through a separate channel. If someone calls claiming to be from your bank, hang up and dial the official customer care number.
What to Do If You Suspect a Hack
If you notice unusual logins, strange pop-ups or unexplained bank charges, act quickly. Change passwords immediately and enable 2FA on affected accounts. Disconnect the device from the internet to limit further access.
Run a full antivirus scan using updated software. For financial accounts, contact your bank or service provider without delay to block or freeze transactions.
Back up important data regularly and keep offline copies. This reduces the pressure to pay in case of a ransomware attack.
If sensitive personal data has been exposed, report the matter to the appropriate authorities such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission or the National Information Technology Development Agency. Early reporting can help contain wider damage.
Cybersecurity in 2026 is about consistent habits, not one-off actions. Strong passwords, regular updates, two-factor authentication and cautious online behaviour remain the first line of defence.
With Nigeria’s digital economy growing fast, personal vigilance will be key. Threats will evolve, but practical, everyday precautions can keep your devices, money and data safer in an increasingly connected world.
