House Of Representatives Advises Nigerians On Illegal Websites

By Ayodele Oni

The House of Representatives has observed that activities of some unauthorized websites which are harvesting personal data of Nigerians are meant to undermine ongoing reforms at the National Identity Management Commission, (NIMC).

Reacting to the recent statement by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) regarding unauthorized websites harvesting the personal data of Nigerians, the House advised Nigerians to exercise caution in dealing with them.

A statement on Sunday by its spokesman Akin Rotimi Jnr.,  advised the piblic to avoid providing personal information to phishing and fraudulent websites.

“These websites, described by NIMC as data harvesters, have no authorisation to access or manage sensitive data.

“Licensed partners or vendors are only authorized to verify NINs through approved channels and are not permitted to scan or store NIN slips.

“NIMC has further assured that robust measures are in place to safeguard the country’s database from cyber threats, including a secure and world-class database.

“The Commission is also working closely with security operatives to apprehend those masquerading as online vendors, and they will face the full wrath of the law.

“The House is deeply concerned and views this disturbing pattern of scam messages and phishing activities as the handiwork of individuals with agenda that seek to cause distractions and undermine ongoing reforms within NIMC.”

According to the statement, the Chairman of the House Committee on Population, Jimi Odimayo expressed the House’s full support for NIMC’s efforts to protect the integrity of the National Identification Number (NIN) system and other sensitive data.

“We recognize the importance of robust data security measures as a cornerstone of our national security,” stated Rep Odimayo.

“The House of Representatives stands firmly with NIMC in addressing these pressing issues and ensuring that our citizens’ data is protected from malicious actors.

“The House urges the Office of the National Security Adviser and other relevant security agencies to thoroughly investigate these incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“In line with our Legislative Agenda (Agenda 2), the Green Chamber reaffirms its commitment to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to improve national security.

“We will continue to support NIMC in its mission to uphold the highest standards of data security and privacy for our dear constituents and all Nigerians.”