Growing Threat of Online Scams in Nigeria: A 2026 Outlook
In Nigeria, the problem of online scams is escalating. Increasingly sophisticated fraud tactics, including the use of artificial intelligence, are drawing the attention of authorities and experts alike.
Scams on the Rise
In 2025, Africa Check identified more than 20 different scams operating within Nigeria. These scams included fraudulent Facebook pages impersonating well-known banks, as well as fake investment schemes that promised to double participants’ money. The potential consequences of falling victim to such scams are significant, including the loss of hard-earned money and the risk of personal information being stolen.
Experts predict that scams will continue unabated into 2026, aggravated by the proliferation of AI tools. Africa Check has highlighted a number of emerging scam trends and provided essential advice to help individuals safeguard their online presence.
The Face of Deception
Recent reports indicate a troubling trend in which scammers leverage AI-generated videos to impersonate popular Nigerian figures. For instance, in early 2026, several AI-generated videos featuring well-known personalities such as health content creator Aproko Doctor and actor Taiwo Ajai-Lycett falsely claimed that they were endorsing treatments for hypertension.
This alarming misuse of technology is not only a fraud tactic but poses a broader societal risk by undermining the trust placed in public figures. Rasheed Adeniyi, acting director of Fountain University’s Centre for Research, Innovation, and Technology, stated, “People using AI to generate fake images and videos of celebrities show that they have found new tools to facilitate their deception.”
The Role of Celebrity Impersonation
High-profile figures are often targeted because they command public trust. For example, in January 2026, business executive Ibukun Awosika exposed several manipulated videos in which she appeared to endorse an investment platform. In a similar vein, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, director-general of the World Trade Organization, cautioned the public against AI-generated videos portraying her misleadingly as a promoter of non-existent investment opportunities.
Individuals frequently face attacks on their digital identity, with scammers creating fake accounts using stolen images to solicit funds from unsuspecting victims. Adeniyi emphasized the urgency of monitoring one’s online presence, warning that the advancement of AI tools makes it easier to misuse people’s images.
Impersonation of Financial Institutions
Scammers are also capitalizing on economic hardships by impersonating banks and other financially regulated institutions. Many victims have reported losses after engaging with fraudulent accounts that mimic legitimate banking services. A noteworthy case involved a Nigerian who was duped out of $1,500 after being directed to WhatsApp by a counterfeit United Bank for Africa account.
Understanding the Landscape
As the digital fraud landscape continues evolving, scams based on fake government relief funds and giveaways have become prevalent. In early 2024, misleading claims circulated regarding government disbursements of relief funds, taking advantage of public anxiety amid economic challenges.
Scams that promise high returns on investment are particularly tempting, especially among those facing financial difficulties. Unregistered fintech platforms are known to exploit this vulnerability, offering loans with minimal documentation and unrealistic returns.
Babatunde Akin-Moses, CEO of fintech firm Sycamore, highlighted the dangers associated with these unauthorized platforms, which often mislead users and breach data privacy. “Legitimate organizations will not request sensitive information over social media,” he noted.
Increasing Cases of Job Scams
The unemployment crisis is exacerbating the issue, as many victims fall prey to fake job postings. These scams often promise lucrative job offers for minimal experience or respond to applicants’ inquiries by requesting personal information. Networking firms utilizing deceptive tactics are particularly exploitative, drawing individuals into their web of fraud.
Romance Scams: A Growing Concern
Romance scams represent another alarming trend. Scammers create fictional personas to engage unsuspecting individuals, tricking them into sending money under false pretenses. Chikezie Omeje, the Africa editor of the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project, indicated that such scams can lead to substantial financial losses for victims who often remain silent about their experiences.
Staying Safe
To combat the rising tide of online fraud, experts offer practical advice for consumers:
- Verify Sources: Always cross-check offers from banks or government agencies through official channels.
- Avoid Suspicious Links: Be cautious of links sent via messaging platforms; they may lead to fraudulent websites.
- Protect Personal Information: Never disclose sensitive data such as bank details or passwords online.
- Question Offers: Be skeptical of opportunities that seem too good to be true.
- Check for Registration: Ensure fintech platforms are registered with the appropriate authorities before using their services.
These precautions can serve as vital steps in safeguarding against the persistent threat of scams.
As the situation develops, it is essential for Nigerians to remain vigilant and informed to protect themselves and their loved ones from the ever-evolving tactics employed by scammers.
— Reported by Nexio News
