…Says It Will Not Be Held Liable for Personal Data Misuse
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerians against sharing or selling their personal information, especially their National Identification Number (NIN), amid growing concerns about data misuse and identity fraud.
The warning follows a recent disclosure by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which revealed a troubling trend involving young Nigerians reportedly purchasing personal data from individuals for as low as N1,500 to N2,000 and reselling the same to some Fintech companies for about N5,000.
Describing the development as a major national security concern, NIMC emphasised the grave consequences such actions could have for individuals whose NIN and personal details are compromised. The Commission made it clear that it will not be held responsible for any breach or misuse of personal data willingly disclosed by individuals for financial gain.
“Nigerians have been repeatedly warned not to disclose their NIN or any other personal information to unauthourised individuals or entities,” the Commission said in a statement signed by its Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Kayode Adegoke. “Any NIN presented to access services must be duly verified before such services are granted.”
The Commission further urged the public and service providers to exercise due diligence when handling personal data and to ensure proper verification processes are in place.
As part of its efforts to strengthen data protection, NIMC encouraged Nigerians to download the NINAuth App on Apple iOS or Google Play Store. The app offers users enhanced control over their data, provides added layers of security, and allows individuals to monitor and manage how their NIN is accessed or used.
The NIMC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the national identity system and called on all stakeholders to play their part in preventing identity theft and data abuse.
