If you've lost money to a scam or given out your personal details to a scammer, you're unlikely to get your money back. However there are steps you can take straight away to limit the damage and protect yourself from further loss.
Contact people you know
You should warn your friends and family about scams. If you’re a business, let your industry association and other contacts know about the scam.
Contact your financial institution
If you've sent money or shared your banking details with a scammer, contact your financial institution immediately. They may be able to stop a transaction, or close your account if the scammer has your account details. Your credit card provider may be able to perform a 'charge back' (reverse the transaction) if your credit card was billed fraudulently.
If you're not sure if you're being scammed, stop sending money. Scammers will keep asking for more money until you stop.
Recover your stolen identity
If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft, it is important that you act quickly to reduce your risk of financial loss or other damages.
You can Report scams to the authorities.
We encourage you to report scams to us via the Report a scam page.
You can also report a scam to the appropriate agency to help them warn the community about scams and take action to disrupt scams.
| Type of incident | Agency / Institution |
|---|---|
| Banking / Financial | Your Bank / Financial Institution |
| Cybercrime or Investment Scams | Economic & Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences (ICPC) |
| Tax Related Scams | Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) |
Change your online passwords
If you think your computer or device has been hacked or infected with malware or ransomware, use your security software to run a virus check if you think your computer has been compromised.
If you think one of your online accounts (e.g. your bank account, email, online shopping account or social networking site) has been compromised, you should change your password immediately. Most reputable websites provide step-by-step instructions for how you can recover a hacked account.
Contact your local consumer protection agency
While the Network against Scam & Cybercrime (Scamwatch Nigeria) is a Non-Governmental Organization poised with dealing with exposing and disrupting scams where possible, Consumer Protection Council (CPC), a Government agency with the resposibilty of protecting general consumers may also be able to assist you and also provide scam alerts and information on how to avoid them.
