The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) alerts Nigerians to the growing tactics of cyber and financial criminals who now hide behind cryptocurrency and other digital platforms to defraud unsuspecting victims. The agency urges the public to stay vigilant as cybercrime continues to evolve and spread across different sectors of society.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the warning comes from the Uyo Zonal Director of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE I) Oshodi Johnson, during a one-day capacity-building workshop held in Uyo for journalists and civil society organisations. He explains that all EFCC operations remain intelligence-driven and rely heavily on timely and credible information from the public.
ACE I Johnson says cybercriminals increasingly exploit digital payment systems, online investments, and virtual assets to carry out fraud. He notes that many of these crimes are carefully planned and disguised as legitimate financial opportunities, making public awareness and media education critical in the fight against cybercrime.
Mediaplusng.com reports that the workshop, organised by the EFCC, aims to equip journalists and civil society groups in Akwa Ibom State with practical knowledge of cybercrime trends, prevention strategies, and reporting mechanisms. The session focuses on strengthening collaboration between the media, civil society, and law enforcement agencies.
The EFCC Uyo Zonal Director calls on Nigerians to partner with the commission by providing useful and credible intelligence on suspected cyber and financial criminals. He stresses that public cooperation remains one of the most effective tools in disrupting criminal networks and preventing financial losses.
Expressing concern, ACE I Johnson says cybercrime has taken a broader and more dangerous dimension, affecting young people, families, schools, and businesses. He urges parents, school authorities, religious bodies, and other stakeholders to work closely with the EFCC to curb the menace and guide young people away from internet-related crimes.
During the workshop, experts from various fields present papers on key areas, including cyber security, legal frameworks, digital fraud, and the role of the media and civil society in combating cybercrime. The sessions highlight how informed reporting and responsible advocacy can help reduce the spread of cyber-related offences.
Among the facilitators are senior EFCC officers, including DCE Ifeyinwa Azegbeobor, Head of the Legal and Prosecution Department at the Uyo Directorate, who speaks on legal procedures and prosecution of cybercrime cases. Other presentations are delivered by ACE II Emeka Ukpai and ACE I Aisha Muhammed, who address emerging crime patterns and preventive strategies.
The commission reiterates its commitment to tackling cybercrime and financial fraud across the country. It encourages members of the public to report genuine complaints and share verified information with the EFCC and other security agencies.
The EFCC assures Nigerians that sustained collaboration, public awareness, and intelligence sharing will strengthen the fight against cybercrime and protect the integrity of the nation’s financial system.
