Unreported: Nigerian National Identity Management Commission issues warnings against trading National Identification Number information for two thousand naira
NIMC Issues Warning Against Selling National Identity Numbers
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has warned Nigerians against selling or sharing their National Identification Numbers (NIN) details, citing potential risks associated with identity theft and financial fraud.
In a statement released recently, the commission emphasized that it will not be held responsible for any fraudulent activity that may result from the sharing of NIN details. This warning is part of the NIMC's ongoing efforts to safeguard national identity data and prevent misuse.
Young Nigerians have reportedly been offering to pay between ₦1,500 and ₦2,000 to obtain personal information, including NINs, which are then sold to fintech companies for about ₦5,000. This illicit trade compromises individual privacy and national security.
The commission highlighted that sharing NIN slips, photocopies, or details can lead to fraud such as unauthorized bank account openings, loan fraud, identity theft, and other malicious uses of personal data. The commission stressed the grave consequences for NIN holders who disclose their details improperly.
NIMC urged individuals, government agencies, and financial service providers to verify NIN information before processing transactions or approvals. Service providers must verify any NIN presented before granting access to services to prevent fraudulent activities.
The commission also recommended Nigerians download and use the NINAuth App, available on Apple iOS and Google Play Store. This app allows users to secure their NIN information, monitor who accesses their data, and enjoy safer digital identity management.
The warning comes in the context of reports by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that revealed the fraudulent selling of personal data is fueling national security threats due to the misuse of NINs. The problem is exacerbated by low digital literacy and economic hardships, which make people vulnerable to scams.
Failure to verify NIN information could result in serious legal and security consequences for all parties involved. The commission has issued a series of warnings in recent years against the circulation of NIN details to third parties without proper authorisation. Sharing or selling NIN data is not just unsafe, but also a violation of national data protection regulations.
Violation of national data protection regulations regarding NIN data may attract criminal penalties. The NIMC continues to emphasize its ongoing efforts to safeguard national identity data and prevent misuse. This practice potentially exposes unsuspecting individuals to identity theft and financial fraud.
For detailed official statements, you can refer to the recent news reports from reliable Nigerian news sources such as Daily Post, Vanguard, Sahara Reporters, and Techpoint Africa, which extensively cover NIMC's position and the risks associated with sharing or selling NIN data.
Sharing of NIN details can lead to financial fraud and identity theft, such as unauthorized bank account openings and loan fraud, emphasizing the gravitas of improper disclosure. Moreover, trading NIN data is not only unsafe, but also a violation of national data protection regulations, potentially exposing individuals to legal penalties.
