1. The Impersonation Scam (a.k.a. CEO or Family Fraud)
How It Works:
A scammer pretends to be someone you know — a boss, a relative, or even your pastor. They send urgent messages via WhatsApp or email asking you to send money or purchase gift cards.
Red Flags:
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Sudden request for money from a familiar name
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Slightly altered email or phone number
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Claims of “emergency” with no time for questions
Protect Yourself:
Call the real person directly before taking any action. Always verify strange requests, even if they come from known contacts.
2. Subscription Traps and Fake Apps
How It Works:
You’re offered a “free” service — like a VPN, loan calculator, or news app — but hidden terms sign you up for recurring charges or steal your data.
Red Flags:
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Vague privacy policy
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App asks for unnecessary permissions (e.g., access to contacts)
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You’re charged after a “free trial” you didn’t authorize
Protect Yourself:
Download only from trusted platforms. Read app reviews and terms carefully before clicking “Accept.”
3. Fake Grant and Empowerment Program Scams
How It Works:
Scammers advertise fake NGO or government programs offering grants or COVID-19 relief. Victims are asked to pay a processing fee or share sensitive information.
Red Flags:
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Links shared only via WhatsApp groups or DMs
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Payment request before any application is processed
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Poor spelling and unprofessional design on the website
Protect Yourself:
Verify all empowerment programs through official government or NGO websites. If it’s not publicly announced, it’s probably fake.
4. Online Dating and “Love from Abroad” Scams
How It Works:
You meet someone online who quickly shows affection. They claim to be overseas but want to settle down with you — and soon start asking for money.
Red Flags:
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Over-the-top romantic gestures early in the conversation
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Refusal to do video calls or meet in person
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Sudden financial emergencies or requests for bank transfers
Protect Yourself:
Don’t send money to someone you’ve never met. Romance should never come with a bill.
5. Ponzi Trading Platforms Disguised as Crypto Projects
How It Works:
A platform claims you’ll earn daily profits through automated crypto trading, staking, or NFT investments. You're asked to “invest” and invite friends to earn more.
Red Flags:
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No physical office or real team members
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Referral commissions are the main selling point
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Withdrawal delays or excuses after initial deposit
Protect Yourself:
If you don’t understand how the platform works or how it generates profits — don’t invest. Real projects have whitepapers, developers, and transparency.
6. Fake Online Stores and Social Media Sellers
How It Works:
Scammers set up Instagram or WhatsApp shops, showcasing trendy clothes, phones, or shoes at low prices. Once you pay, you never receive your order — and the seller disappears.
Red Flags:
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No business name, no registered address
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Only accepting direct bank transfers
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Fake reviews and no traceable order system
Protect Yourself:
Use platforms with secure payment systems and buyer protection. If the seller only responds with voice notes or emojis, be cautious.
7. Phishing Links via Sponsored Ads or Comments
How It Works:
You click on an ad promising cheap flight tickets, government jobs, or scholarships. The link redirects to a fake page that collects your details or installs malware.
Red Flags:
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Suspicious-looking URLs (e.g., govt.ng-free.com)
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Sites filled with pop-ups or forced downloads
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Ads that ask for payment before showing details
Protect Yourself:
Avoid clicking on random ads. Double-check web addresses. Never input personal information into unfamiliar sites.
Final Thoughts: Digital Wisdom is the New Currency
In today’s Nigeria, falling victim to an online scam can mean more than just losing money — it can mean losing trust, data, and opportunities. As scammers grow smarter, so must we.
Here’s how to stay one step ahead:
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Verify everything.
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Ask questions before making any payment.
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Educate your friends and family.
The more aware we are as a digital society, the harder it becomes for cybercriminals to thrive.
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