Further to grow digital awareness and safety in Nigeria, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged telecommunications consumers to take greater personal responsibility for their safety online amid rising cyber risks.
The Commission warned that increased reliance on mobile phones, computers and internet services has exposed consumers to threats such as hacking, online scams, malware attacks and identity theft, many of which can be triggered by a single careless click.
Accordingly, the Commission has released a set of practical ‘A–Z tips’ aimed at helping consumers reduce exposure to cyberthreats and safeguard their online identities.
Cybersafety begins with individual responsibility within Nigeria’s broader digital ecosystem. Over the years, the NCC has promoted cybersecurity in the telecommunications sector through sustained awareness campaigns, regulatory frameworks and the enforcement of minimum security standards for service providers.
The Commission also operates a Computer Security Incident Response Team (NCC-CSIRT) for incident handling, collaborates with key industry stakeholders and provides resources to encourage safer internet usage, all in support of protecting consumers and Nigeria’s Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII).
In a post on its corporate website, the NCC stressed that its mandate goes beyond regulation to include policy enforcement, consumer education and technical support, aimed at building a resilient and secure digital environment.
The regulator emphasised that consumers can protect themselves and their communities by maintaining good cyber hygiene, highlighting key practices such as enabling two-factor authentication, keeping devices and software updated, securing personal information, avoiding suspicious links and messages, and using secure networks for online activities.
The NCC noted that adherence to the A–Z tips can significantly enhance consumer protection in cyberspace. “By following these practices, consumers can greatly reduce the risk of cyberthreats and protect their online identities,” the Commission stated.
The tips are outlined below:
E- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
F- Firewall protection: Enable firewall protection on your device.
G- Guard your personal info: Be cautious when sharing personal info online.
H- HTTPS: Look for “https” in the URL to ensure a secure connection.
I- Install updates: Regularly update your operating system, browser, and software.
J- Just Say NO: Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages.
K- Keep your antivirus software updated: Protect your device from malware.
L- Lock your device: Use a password, PIN, or fingerprint to lock your device.
M- Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your account activity.
N- Network security: Use a secure and private network.
O- Online shopping safety: Use reputable websites and secure payment methods
P- Password manager: Consider using a password manager.
Q- Question suspicious requests: Be cautious of requests for sensitive information.
R- Report scams: Report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
S- Secure your Wi-Fi: Use a strong password and WPA2 encryption.
T- Two-Factor Authentication: Use 2FA whenever possible.
U- Update your browser: Regularly update your browser to ensure security patches.
V- Verify sender information: Be cautious of emails or messages from unknown senders.
W- Wi-Fi safety: Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
X- X-out suspicious emails: Delete suspicious emails without opening attachments.
Y- You are responsible: Take ownership of your online security.
Z- Zero trust: Be cautious of all online interactions.
