Key Takeaways
- The Nigerian Army warns against impersonating the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on social media.
- Impostors are using fake online meetings to defraud people.
- The Army has released a list of phone numbers frequently used by these scammers.
- The public is urged to report suspicious online activity to the Nigerian Army.
The Rise of Impostors: A Growing Threat
The Nigerian Army is battling a wave of impersonators posing as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on various social media platforms. These individuals use the COAS’s official portrait as their profile picture to appear legitimate. The problem isn’t new, but these scammers are getting more sophisticated in their tactics.
How the Scammers Operate
These impostors are now fixing online meetings via Zoom, WhatsApp, and Facebook. They ask participants to share specific numbers displayed on their screens. With this information, they engage with individuals privately and then proceed to defraud them.
Numbers to Watch Out For
The Nigerian Army has identified several phone numbers frequently used by these fraudsters. Be extremely cautious if you receive calls or messages from these numbers:
- 09033949238
- 09075323836
- 09074272745
- 08169257155
- 08064561495
- 08054138812
- 09161521558
- 09026515718
- 09020898622
- 08131333263
- 09077188584
- 08084529752
- 08147409236
- 09136497898
- 09024627712
- 07010119398
- 09138997224
- 09061549129
- 08163593764
- 07035272009
- 09018150412
- 08093524443
- 08088120581
Army’s Response: What You Need to Know
Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, emphasizes that the Army has specific communication protocols known to all officers and soldiers. The public should be wary of any online meetings or calls that deviate from these established methods.
How to Protect Yourself
Here’s how you can avoid falling victim to these scams:
- Avoid engaging in online meetings organized on social media, especially if they use the COAS’s picture.
- Report any suspicious phone numbers used to arrange these meetings to the Nigerian Army toll-free call center: 193.
- Be cautious about online interactions and verify the legitimacy of any requests or information.
Staying Vigilant: A Shared Responsibility
Both military personnel and the general public must be vigilant against these scams. Rely on established communication channels and procedures when interacting with the Army hierarchy. By working together, we can combat these fraudulent activities and protect ourselves from financial and personal harm. The rise in cyber crime is a global phenomenon, as reported by Interpol, and requires constant vigilance.
The Bottom Line
Don’t let these scammers win! Stay informed, be cautious, and report any suspicious activity. The Nigerian Army is committed to protecting the public from these fraudulent schemes.
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