The National Information Technology Development Agency
(NITDA) has warned against a money-lending app “MoneyMonger” malware used by
hackers to blackmail unsuspecting people.
Mrs Hadiza Umar, Head of Corporate Affairs and External
Relations of the agency, gave the warning on Thursday in a statement issued in
Abuja.
Umar said that the malware campaign was aimed at
blackmailing users into accepting their demands or risking having their private
information in the public domain.
“Developing countries like Nigeria are a prime target for
dodgy loan apps and this has created an avenue for hackers to exploit.
“Although none of the 33 apps used in the deceptive scheme
has been distributed through the Google Play Store, they have been distributed
through unofficial app stores like Smishing, rogue ads, compromised websites
and social media campaigns.
“The campaign has reportedly racked up over 100,000
downloads,” Umar said.
She added that once the malware was installed, it harvests and
uploads a wide range of private information from the victim’s device onto its
server.
According to her, the collected data include GPS location,
text messages, contacts, call logs, files, photos and audio recordings, among
others.
Umar said that the information would be used to blackmail
the victim into paying high-interest rates.
She cautioned that individuals should install up-to-date
anti-malware applications on their mobile devices.
“Always download applications from trusted sources, and read
reviews before downloading any app.
“Beware of what information the app collects from your
device and do not click on suspicious links,” Umar warned.
For more enquiries, she directed individuals to reach the
Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team (CERRT) of the agency at
cerrt@nitda.gov.ng,www.cerrt.ng or +234 817 877 4580.