Dambatta implores Telecoms operators to invest more in robust infrastructure to tackle menace of e-fraud
The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, FNSE, FRAES, FAENG, FNIEEE, has called on Telecom operators to invest in robust infrastructure, employ state-of-the-art security measures, and conduct regular audits to identify vulnerabilities and address them promptly to tackle the menace e-fraud on telecom platform.
He said this in his keynote address deliver recently on a topic of paramount importance: Combating e-fraud on telecom platforms and building consumer confidence in the digital economy at the 2nd Quarter 2023 Industry Consumer Advisory Forum (ICAF) Meeting, recently in Lagos.
“Additionally”, he said, “Operators should implement stringent authentication protocols, two-factor authentication, and encryption mechanisms to safeguard customer data and prevent unauthorized access.
He also stressed that there is also the concern about how personal data is collected, stored, shared and exploited. “Fortunately, NDEPS 2020-2030 adequately addresses the protection of telecom consumers against the threats of cybercrime, encouraging them to embrace digital finance and supporting them to contribute to the Digital Economy. Pillar #6 of the NDEPS, which deals with soft infrastructure, has proven to be proactive.
“The soft infrastructure pillar focuses on strengthening public confidence in the use of digital technologies and participation in the Digital Economy. The pillar will address the importance of cybersecurity and other standards, frameworks, and guidelines that encourage citizens to embrace a digital culture. Data privacy and the deployment of technologies like the public key infrastructure are addressed in this pillar”.
“Recently, the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 was signed into law to provide a legal framework for the protection of personal information and the regulation of how personal information is processed, among other things. The NCC is also in the process of developing more elaborate Data Protection Regulations to ensure the protection and privacy of data in the Nigerian communications sector. It is important to mention that the Commission has issued the Consumer Code of Practice Regulations 2007 which among other things, provides for the protection of consumer information”.
Dambatta also called on Law Enforcement Agencies to collaborate closely with telecom operators and regulatory bodies to investigate and prosecute e-fraud perpetrators. Enhanced coordination, information sharing, and dedicated cybercrime units can go a long way in deterring criminals and bringing them to justice. “Strengthening international cooperation in combating cross-border e-fraud is also imperative, as cybercriminals often exploit jurisdictional limitations”.
The NCC boss also stressed that the Commission, committed to fulfilling its mandate and passionate about driving Digital Economy in Nigeria, has continued to implement initiatives to Protect, Inform and Educate telecom consumers in this regard.
“Through its Consumer Affairs Bureau (CAB), the Commission undertakes constant Consumer Education with a significant part of this effort dedicated to providing information that equips the Consumer to thrive in a world that has embraced digital finance. Information dissemination materials on how to safeguard themselves while using telecom platforms to access digital financial products are available on the NCC consumer portal whilst hardcopies are distributed at consumer outreach events.
“To further protect telecom consumers, the Nigerian Communications Commission’s Computer Security Incident Response Team (NCC-CSIRT) periodically notifies telecom consumers of the latest cybersecurity threats and how to avoid falling victim to them. NCC-CSIRT in collaboration with the Nigeria Computer Emergency Response Team (ngCERT) at the office of the National Security Adviser has been at the forefront of protecting telecom consumers from cyber threats. The provision of timely advisories has helped to protect consumers from being unfairly targeted by cyber-attacks, which goes a long way in ensuring that they can access digital services without suffering unwarranted losses. We strongly believe that by fostering a culture of vigilance and knowledge, we can collectively reduce the success rate of e-fraud attempts”.
He, however, pointed out that combatting e-fraud is not just the responsibility of industry stakeholders and authorities. “Consumers too, must be active participants in this battle against e-fraud. Building consumer awareness and promoting digital literacy is crucial to empowering individuals to protect themselves”.
“Telecom operators should educate their customers about potential risks, provide guidance on secure online practices, and offer user-friendly tools to monitor and manage their accounts. Regular communication with customers, promptly addressing their concerns, and providing timely updates on security issues are vital in establishing trust. To build consumer confidence in the Digital Economy, we must emphasize transparency and accountability. Telecom operators should be transparent about their security measures, privacy policies, and incident response mechanisms. Collaboration with third-party security firms and independent audits can also help validate the integrity of telecom platforms”, he stressed
