The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has issued a warning to Nigerians about a new banking malware, which poses a serious threat to users worldwide.
Released on Monday by NITDA’s Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team (CERT), the advisory highlights the evolving nature of cyber threats.
The malware, identified as a new version of Grandoreiro, uses advanced tactics such as screen overlay attacks and remote device control to steal sensitive information, including banking credentials and personal data.
According to NITDA, this malware is distributed through phishing emails and fraudulent websites, which trick victims into downloading malicious software disguised as legitimate updates or documents.
Once installed, the malware bypasses security measures, giving attackers unauthorized access to users’ devices. “Cyber threats like Grandoreiro are evolving, and users need to stay vigilant and adopt robust security practices to protect their information,” NITDA stated.
The agency warned that the malware could lead to significant financial losses and identity theft.
NITDA urged Nigerians to exercise caution when handling suspicious emails and to be wary of links and attachments from unknown sources.
The agency also recommended downloading software only from trusted websites, enabling multifactor authentication for online banking, and keeping antivirus software updated to counteract such threats.
NITDA further advised against using public Wi-Fi for financial transactions and stressed the importance of regularly monitoring bank accounts for any unauthorized activities. “We must remain alert to these threats and follow best security practices to mitigate risks,” the agency concluded.
