* Charge citizens on due diligence, vigilance on social media platforms
By Nudoiba Ojen
The Nigeria Police Force has alerted the public that a preliminary cyber scan conducted recently by the its Cybercrime Unit has revealed the existence of numerous fraudulent Facebook accounts using the name and image of Senior Police Officers.
These included fake Facebook accounts of Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Frank Mba and other senior officers.
Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said, “It is pertinent to categorically state that these Facebook accounts are fake, as DIG Frank Mba does not have an active presence on Facebook and other social media platforms, as he does not maintain any personal or official Facebook account”.
Adejobi, however, cautioned the general public to practise “due diligence and exercise vigilance while interacting on social media platforms and taking proactive steps to verify the authenticity of online profiles purporting to represent public figures before engaging them.
“The NPF advises against engaging in any form of discourse, particularly those involving financial transactions or attachments of a pecuniary nature.
Adejobi gave the advice in a Public Notice titled, “Beware of fake Facebook accounts allegedly belonging to DIG Frank Mba, other senior police officers”.
He stated, “The NPF, therefore, strongly encourages members of the public to promptly report any suspicious account(s) bearing his name to the appropriate authorities which will initiate thorough investigations, and legal action may be pursued against those responsible for these impersonations, as these fraudulent accounts have been established with the deceptive intent to mislead and potentially defraud unsuspecting individuals.
“Given the circumstances, the NPF underscores the significance of exercising caution and restraint when coming across these deceptive Facebook pages.
“It is crucial to note that no senior police officer engages in financial transactions to gain favours. Consequently, individuals encountering any such solicitations should promptly report any such advances, as they may likely be part of a fraudulent scheme. Your vigilance in this matter is greatly appreciated,” the police spokesman said.
