The bank disclosed that the new security feature adds an additional verification step to the login process beyond the traditional password authentication system.

Under the new arrangement, customers logging into the Zenith internet banking platform will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on their registered phone number and email address after entering their account number and password.

The OTP, according to the bank, will remain valid for five minutes and must be used to complete the login process.

Zenith Bank said the deployment is aimed at enhancing the safety of customer accounts amid rising concerns over digital fraud, phishing attacks, and unauthorised access to online banking platforms.

The bank also advised customers to remain vigilant against fraudulent links and phishing attempts, stressing that it would never send login links to users for internet banking access.

“Only access the Zenith Bank Internet Banking from our website,” the bank stated in a customer advisory issued on the new security upgrade.

The move reflects a broader trend among financial institutions in Nigeria to strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure and improve digital banking protection as online transactions continue to grow across the country.

Zenith Bank further urged customers requiring assistance to contact its customer support channels, including ZenithDirect and its virtual assistant platform, ZiVA.

With cybercrime on the rise across the continent, energy providers must modernise their systems while safeguarding citizen data and maintaining public trust.

Rebuilding digital trust starts with understanding the current landscape, especially within Nigeria’s energy framework.

The term “energy sector” is broad, so the focus should be on Energy Retail and Energy Service Provision, areas where customer interaction is most direct.

Like banking, energy services are essential and widely used, with both sectors increasingly reliant on digital platforms and exposed to growing cybersecurity risks.

Just as banks have built trust through secure, customer-centric systems, energy providers must adopt a similar approach.

In Africa, energy platforms are becoming prime targets by cybercrime, and even a single data breach can erode public trust. Security and transparency are no longer negotiable, they are the foundation of sustainable growth.

Modernising digital infrastructure is not just about efficiency; it is about creating a trusted environment where customers feel protected and engaged.

To achieve this, energy providers must invest in secure, reliable platforms that safeguard data, improve service delivery, and foster strong relationships with users, mirroring the success seen in the financial sector.

Rapid growth and transformation

However, unlike banks or e-commerce platforms, which often have the agility and infrastructure to respond swiftly to emerging threats, the energy sector is still in a phase of rapid growth and transformation.

This limits its ability to react quickly, making it particularly vulnerable to a wide range of cyber risks.

These risks include:

• Phishing and social engineering attacks targeting employees and systems
• Identity theft and data breaches, often due to internal actors or weak access controls
• Legacy systems that lack modern security protocols, increasing exposure to malware, ransomware and denial-of-service attacks
• Inadequate endpoint protection, particularly on end-user devices, which remain common entry points for malicious activity

Many of these vulnerabilities originate at the retail or consumer-facing level, where compromised devices or poor cybersecurity hygiene can expose core infrastructure.

Internally, how the sector safeguards devices, educates employees and enforces compliance, plays a critical role in either mitigating or amplifying these risks.

Without a proactive, layered approach to cyber resilience, the consequences could ripple far beyond operational disruption, impacting trust, reputation and even threatening national security. Systems such as Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) add a distinct layer of identity protection within the broader security stack.

Reinforcing trust, accountability and resilience

2FA verifies users through a second factor, often time-based and device-linked, making unauthorised access nearly impossible, even if passwords are compromised. It is not just a feature; it is a proactive safeguard that reinforces trust, accountability and resilience across digital environments.

For online organisations using apps or web portals, 2FA integration is now quicker and more flexible. Customer engagement platforms and communication service providers offer APIs that connect seamlessly with existing systems, eliminating the need for complex on-premises 2FA solutions.

By adopting these APIs, organisations can offer 2FA as either an optional feature or a standard part of their service. It provides a scalable, efficient way to enhance security while maintaining a smooth customer journey.

The customer journey lies at the heart of trust. Secure, multichannel engagement, makes this journey smoother, more responsive and reliable. Customers can send secure messages, receive real-time updates, and track every interaction, giving them both control and transparency.

Elevating customer experience

When unexpected activity occurs, instant alerts build awareness and provide peace of mind. Combined with a full engagement history, this builds trust, supports audits and strengthens accountability. In the end, secure digital touchpoints do not only protect, they elevate the customer experience.

Looking ahead, the adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) solutions will drive demand for detailed monitoring and proactive alerts.

This shift emphasises the importance of anticipating threats and instant responses. As digital services become more personalised, customers will expect seamless, automated experiences, requiring security measures to evolve beyond traditional 2FA to include biometrics, behavioural triggers or pre-authorised actions.

In fast-moving sectors like utilities, these trends will drive a need for robust, embedded cybersecurity frameworks that can adapt in real time.

The future of customer engagement will be predictive, frictionless and secured by intelligent, context-aware authentication mechanisms, designed not just to protect, but to empower.

Young Africans are building wealth, discovering global markets, and taking control of their finances through crypto. It is a revolution driven by innovation, smartphones, and a hunger for financial freedom.

Yet, just like any gold rush, the excitement comes with danger. Scams, security threats, and poor decisions have cost many traders their hard-earned money. As crypto adoption expands, staying safe has become just as important as making profits.

This article explores how African crypto traders can protect their hard-earned assets, avoid common mistakes, and thrive in a fast-growing digital economy.

Understanding What You Invest In

The first step to staying safe in crypto is understanding what you are investing in. Every cryptocurrency represents a project or purpose, but not every project is built to last. Some tokens solve real problems, while others exist only to exploit investor excitement.

Before buying any coin, take time to research. Look into who created it, what it aims to achieve, and whether it has a clear roadmap. A flashy website or a trending hashtag is not proof of value.

The more you understand a project, the less likely you are to fall for false promises. In crypto, information is your first layer of protection.

Choosing Trustworthy Platforms

Your choice of exchange determines how safe your crypto journey will be. Trusted platforms like MEXC provide strong security systems, transparent operations, and global access, all essential for peace of mind in a volatile market.

A good exchange protects your funds through technology like two-factor authentication, withdrawal passwords, and robust data protection.

It also ensures you trade at fair prices with deep liquidity and fast order execution. When you trade on reliable platforms, you not only safeguard your assets but also position yourself for sustainable success.

Securing Your Digital Wallet

Your wallet is the digital vault for your assets, and protecting it must be your top priority. Hot wallets (those connected to the internet) offer convenience but are vulnerable to hacks. Cold wallets (offline storage such as hardware devices) are far more secure for long-term holdings.

Never share your recovery phrase or private keys with anyone, no matter how convincing they sound. No legitimate company or support staff will ever ask for them. The moment someone gains access to your private keys, your funds are gone forever.

Building Safe Digital Habits

Technology alone cannot protect you if your habits are careless. Many traders lose funds not because of bad investments, but because they fail to stay vigilant. Using weak passwords, ignoring security updates, or trading over public Wi-Fi are all risky mistakes.

Always double-check website links before logging in. Turn on two-factor authentication. Use strong, unique passwords for each platform.

And most importantly, think twice before responding to offers that seem too good to be true. In the world of crypto, if something sounds effortless and guaranteed, it is almost certainly a scam.

Recognizing Modern Scams

Crypto scams have become more sophisticated, and even experienced traders can fall victim. Fake investment schemes promise high returns and disappear overnight. Fraudsters create look-alike websites of legitimate exchanges. Others impersonate well-known traders or brands to gain trust.

Before you click, confirm. Check official handles, contact verified support channels, and rely only on recognized sources such as MEXC’s official website and social media pages. Protecting your funds means slowing down, questioning everything, and keeping your guard up.

Managing Risk with Discipline

Crypto markets are fast-moving and unpredictable. Prices can surge or crash within hours. The smartest traders understand that risk is part of the game, and they plan for it. They never invest more than they can afford to lose, they diversify their portfolios, and they always use tools like stop-loss orders to minimize potential damage.

On MEXC, tools such as Copy Trading allow newcomers to learn directly from experienced professionals. It helps users follow proven strategies while maintaining full control over their money and level of risk. Knowledge, not emotion, is what keeps you profitable in the long run.

Learning Is the Real Investment

The safest traders are the most informed ones. Knowledge is the most valuable currency in crypto. That is why MEXC Foundation has launched programs like IgniteX, which empower students and young Africans with blockchain education, mentorship, and scholarships.

Through resources like MEXC Learn, anyone can access free, easy-to-understand materials on topics ranging from trading and blockchain basics to advanced Web3 innovation. The more Africans learn, the better prepared they become to navigate the digital future responsibly.

Think Beyond Quick Profits

True wealth in crypto does not come from chasing short-term gains. It comes from patience, knowledge, and a long-term vision. Traders who focus on understanding technology, supporting meaningful projects, and investing in solid platforms are the ones who last.

Africa’s crypto revolution is still unfolding. Stablecoins are helping people preserve value, Bitcoin is becoming a digital store of trust, and blockchain is opening global opportunities. But this progress will only be sustainable if traders approach it wisely and securely.

Conclusion

The digital gold rush is real and Africa is right at the heart of it. But success in this new economy will not belong to those who rush in blindly. It will belong to those who take time to learn, who protect their wallets, and who make informed decisions.

In the world of crypto, safety is an important strategy. With trusted platforms like MEXC, the right education, and disciplined trading habits, African crypto traders can build not just wealth, but lasting financial empowerment.

[Risk Disclaimer: The information provided in this article regarding cryptocurrencies does not constitute investment advice. Given the highly volatile nature of the cryptocurrency market, investors are encouraged to carefully assess market fluctuations, the fundamentals of projects, and potential financial risks before making any trading decisions].

One of the most effective tools in your arsenal against the rising tide of cyber threats is the implementation of two-factor authentication (2FA).

Ethan Bennet from Sonin explains why you should use 2FA for all your online accounts and transactions.

What Is The Threat From Cyberattacks?

Ethan explains, ‘The past few years have witnessed a staggering surge in data breaches and cyberattacks, with cybercriminals relentlessly targeting individuals and organizations alike.

From large-scale hacks of major corporations to the theft of personal information, the consequences of these malicious activities can be devastating.’

Some of the methods they use include:

• Automated Bots: Cybercriminals use fraudulent online bot services to make automated phone calls and bypass 2FA, targeting multiple countries.
• Social Engineering: Threat actors often send an email that is meant to look like it comes from a friend, family member, or trusted authority, trying to trick users into handing over credentials and granting organizational access.
• SIM Hijacking: Hackers can impersonate users and gain control of their phone numbers, allowing them to intercept any 2FA codes sent by text.
• Inundating Users: Cybercriminals overwhelm users with authentication request alerts, hoping they will eventually approve a fraudulent login attempt.
• Stealing Credentials: When targeting companies, once they have gained access details from just one employee, attackers can move laterally, stealing even more credentials, compromising servers and endpoints, and downloading sensitive organizational data.

Sensitive data such as login credentials, financial information, and confidential documents have become the prime targets of these digital predators, leaving victims vulnerable to identity theft, financial fraud, and other forms of exploitation.

The Power Of 2FA

Ethan says, ‘By requiring users to verify their identity through multiple methods, such as a password and a one-time code sent to their mobile device or through biometric authentication, 2FA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.’

Even if a cybercriminal obtains a user’s login credentials, they would still be unable to access the account without completing the additional verification step.

Ethan’s Tips For Enabling 2FA

To enhance the security of your accounts in 2024, consider the following tips for enabling two-factor authentication:

• Identify Accounts and Devices: Make a comprehensive list of all your online accounts, including email, social media, banking, and other critical services, and enable 2FA on each one.
• Utilize Diverse Authentication Methods: Explore the various 2FA options available, such as SMS, authenticator apps, and biometric authentication, and choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences. Ethan says, ‘Authenticator apps and biometric methods are the most secure, so use these if you can.’
• Regularly Review and Update: Periodically review your 2FA settings and update them as necessary to ensure that your security measures remain effective in the face of evolving threats.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Spread awareness about the importance of two-factor authentication and encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to adopt this essential security practice.

[Featured Photo credit: Christin Hume on Unsplash]

However, as 2FA becomes more prevalent, cybercriminals are devising sophisticated strategies to bypass this security layer and gain unauthorized access to your sensitive information.

Trevor Cooke, the online privacy expert at EarthWeb, sheds light on some effective strategies you can use to safeguard your accounts.

How Cybercriminals Are Getting Around 2FA

Credential Harvesting Via Phishing

Cybercriminals start their schemes by crafting deceptive emails, messages, or websites that closely resemble legitimate platforms, luring unsuspecting users to enter their login credentials.

Once users fall for the phishing attack and input their username and password, cybercriminals swiftly harvest this information and attempt to access the victim’s account.

While MFA/2FA may prevent immediate access, cybercriminals are already armed with the victim’s credentials, allowing them to initiate fraudulent activities or further exploit vulnerabilities.

Social Engineering To Obtain Authentication Codes

Trevor states, ‘Once they have your login credentials, phishing attacks move to the next stage. They often employ social engineering tactics to manipulate individuals into divulging their MFA/2FA codes.

Cybercriminals may impersonate trusted entities, such as tech support agents or financial institutions, and create a sense of urgency or fear to coerce victims into providing their authentication codes.’

By exploiting human psychology and trust, cybercriminals trick users into willingly handing over their MFA/2FA codes, thereby circumventing this crucial security layer.

Fake Login Pages And Overlay Attacks

Sophisticated phishing campaigns utilize fake login pages or overlay attacks to intercept MFA/2FA codes in real time.

Victims are directed to fraudulent login pages that mimic legitimate platforms, where they unknowingly input their credentials and authentication codes.

Behind the scenes, cybercriminals capture these codes in real time, enabling them to bypass MFA/2FA protections and gain unauthorized access to the victim’s account before the victim realizes they’ve been compromised.

Account Takeover And Immediate Use Of Stolen Credentials

Once cybercriminals obtain both login credentials and authentication codes through phishing, they swiftly execute account takeovers and initiate fraudulent activities.

With access to the victim’s account, cybercriminals may conduct unauthorized transactions, exfiltrate sensitive data, or exploit the compromised account for further malicious purposes.

Trevor advises, ‘By acting quickly upon obtaining stolen credentials, cybercriminals minimize the window of opportunity for victims to detect the unauthorized access and take corrective actions.’

How To Protect Yourself And Your Business

To defend against these sophisticated phishing tactics and protect against MFA/two-factor authentication bypass attempts, individuals and organizations must adopt a multi-faceted approach:

User Education and Awareness

Educate users about the telltale signs of phishing attacks, including suspicious emails, unfamiliar senders, and urgent requests for login credentials or authentication codes.

Trevor advises, ‘Foster a culture of skepticism and caution, encouraging users to verify the legitimacy of requests and refrain from disclosing sensitive information without proper authentication.’

Advanced Authentication Methods

Implement stronger authentication methods, such as app-based authenticators or hardware tokens, which are less susceptible to phishing attacks compared to SMS-based codes.

Encourage users to leverage these advanced authentication methods to enhance security and resilience against phishing attempts.

Phishing Simulation And Training

Trevor says, ‘Conduct regular phishing simulation exercises and security awareness training to familiarize users with phishing tactics and empower them to recognize and report suspicious activity promptly.’ Provide practical guidance on identifying phishing red flags and responding effectively to phishing attempts, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and caution in the face of evolving cyber threats.

By understanding the specific techniques employed by cybercriminals to exploit MFA/two-factor authentication vulnerabilities through phishing, individuals and organizations can bolster their defenses and mitigate the risks posed by these sophisticated attacks.

Trevor says, ‘Through proactive education, advanced authentication methods, and ongoing vigilance, users can thwart phishing attempts and safeguard their accounts against unauthorized access and exploitation.’

[Featured Image Credit]

However, hackers are increasingly targeting these devices, exploiting their vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access and steal data.

So, how can you enjoy the convenience of this futuristic tech without falling prey to criminals?

Trevor Cooke, the online privacy expert at EarthWeb, shares insights into the specific threats facing smart home users and offers tips on how to mitigate these risks effectively.

The Risks Of Unsecured Smart Home Devices

1. Not Securing Your Network

One of the most significant threats facing smart home users is unsecured networks. Many smart devices connect to home Wi-Fi networks, which, if left unprotected, can be easily infiltrated by hackers.

Trevor says, ‘Once inside the network, hackers can intercept sensitive information, such as login credentials or personal data, leading to privacy breaches and identity theft.’

2. Using Default Passwords

Default passwords present another major risk. Manufacturers often ship smart devices with default passwords that are easily guessable or widely known.

Hackers can exploit these default passwords to gain access to the device, granting them control over its functions and potentially allowing them to spy on users or manipulate device settings without their knowledge.

3. Not Updating Your Software

Outdated software is yet another vulnerability that hackers can exploit. Smart home devices, like any other technology, require regular software updates to patch security flaws and vulnerabilities.

Trevor emphasizes how the failure to update these devices leaves them susceptible to exploitation by hackers who can exploit known vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access and compromise users’ privacy and security.

4. Smart Home Security Tips From Trevor

To safeguard your smart home devices from cyber threats, Trevor offers the following top tips:

. Strengthen Your Network Security

Ensure your home Wi-Fi network is secure by using strong, unique passwords and enabling encryption protocols like WPA2. Consider setting up a separate guest network for smart devices to prevent unauthorized access to your main network.

. Change That Default Password

Trevor recommends, ‘Immediately change the default passwords on all your smart devices to unique, complex passwords that will outfox the scammers. Avoid using easily guessable passwords like ‘password’ or ‘123456’ and opt for a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.’

. Keep Your Software Updated

‘Regularly check for software updates for your smart devices and install them as soon as they become available. These updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities and protect your devices from exploitation by hackers,’ Trevor explains.

. Implement Network Segmentation

‘Consider segmenting your home network to isolate smart devices from other devices, such as computers and smartphones,’ advises Trevor.

This can help contain potential security breaches and prevent hackers from accessing sensitive information or compromising other devices on your network.

. Use Two-Factor Authentication

Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to your smart home devices.

This requires users to provide a secondary form of authentication, such as a code sent to their mobile device, in addition to their password, making it more difficult for hackers to gain unauthorized access.

. Monitor Your Device Activity

Keep a close eye on the activity logs and settings of your smart devices for any suspicious or unauthorized changes. This can help you identify and address potential security breaches before they escalate.