By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has issued a comprehensive set of “A–Z tips” to telecoms consumers, urging them to adopt simple but effective cyber hygiene practices to significantly reduce exposure to cyberthreats and protect their online identities.
The advisory, released as part of the Commission’s consumer education and sensitisation initiatives, comes against the backdrop of an increasingly digital world in which daily activities are now deeply connected through mobile phones, computers and the internet. According to the NCC, while this digital transformation has improved connectivity and access to services, it has also heightened vulnerabilities, with cybercriminals constantly exploiting loopholes through hacking, online scams, malware attacks and other emerging cyber risks.
The Commission stressed that cybersafety begins with individual responsibility across the entire digital ecosystem, noting that consumers play a critical role in safeguarding themselves and their communities. It explained that this realisation has driven the NCC’s long-standing commitment to championing cybersecurity within Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
Over the years, the NCC has pursued this mandate through sustained public awareness campaigns, the development and enforcement of regulatory frameworks, and the provision of minimum security standards for telecoms service providers. The Commission also operates a dedicated Computer Security Incident Response Team, the NCC-CSIRT, to manage and respond to cybersecurity incidents, while collaborating with industry stakeholders to protect consumers and safeguard the nation’s Critical National Information Infrastructure.
In a recent post on its corporate website, the NCC reiterated that every telecoms consumer has the power to enhance personal and collective safety in cyberspace by adopting effective cyber hygiene practices. The Commission emphasised that the newly released A–Z tips are designed to guide consumers on practical actions they can take to remain secure online and reduce the likelihood of falling victim to cybercrime.
The NCC added that consistent application of these measures would go a long way in strengthening individual digital safety and building a more resilient digital ecosystem nationwide, urging consumers to remain vigilant and proactive in all their online interactions.
E- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
F- Firewall protection: Enable firewall protection on your device.
G- Guard your personal info: Be cautious when sharing personal info online.
H- HTTPS: Look for “https” in the URL to ensure a secure connection.
I- Install updates: Regularly update your operating system, browser, and software.
J- Just Say NO: Be cautious of suspicious emails or messages.
K- Keep your antivirus software updated: Protect your device from malware.
L- Lock your device: Use a password, PIN, or fingerprint to lock your device.
M- Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your account activity.
N- Network security: Use a secure and private network.
O- Online shopping safety: Use reputable websites and secure payment methods.
P- Password manager: Consider using a password manager.
Q- Question suspicious requests: Be cautious of requests for sensitive information.
R- Report scams: Report suspicious activity to relevant authorities.
S- Secure your Wi-Fi: Use a strong password and WPA2 encryption.
T- Two-Factor Authentication: Use 2FA whenever possible.
U- Update your browser: Regularly update your browser to ensure security patches.
V- Verify sender information: Be cautious of emails or messages from unknown senders.
W- Wi-Fi safety: Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
X- X-out suspicious emails: Delete suspicious emails without opening attachments.
Y- You are responsible: Take ownership of your online security.
Z- Zero trust: Be cautious of all online interactions.
