Anonymous, an online network known for launching cyberattacks against government institutions, has reportedly hacked the website of First Bank of Nigeria Limited.
But the financial institution has denied the hack.
A visit to the bank’s website at 01:30pm showed that it had been brought down completely.
In a string of tweets, Anonymous confirmed bringing down the bank’s website while alleging that the bank deducted money from the accounts of customers who are in support of the #EndSARS campaign.
Anonymous also accused the bank of instructing its staff not to join the #EndSARS campaign.
It stated, “Now #ENDSARSOPPRESSION Official website of First Banks Nigeria has been taken #Offline. You remove money from users because they support #EndSARS.
“We #Anonymous have taken-down your website in support of #EndSARS
“You will pay for your actions. you should have expected us!
“Enjoy your server taken down. no money is gone.”
Anonymous, however, said it would restore the website after it “keep it down for some time”.
However, First Bank said the website was never brought down in the first place.
The bank said, “Our attention has been drawn to the tweet making the rounds on social media on shutting down the FirstBank website following a false tweet that the Bank prevented staff from joining the ongoing protests in the country.
“As the largest banking institution in Nigeria, it is not unlikely that we may be seen as a target in circumstances such as these. This is rather unfortunate as we believe far-reaching reform is necessary and we have said as much on a number of occasions across our platforms.
“In the process of change, some pain will be borne by all and some anger may well be misdirected. We understand this as a part of the process of the struggle.
“”We have a large staff strength and an even larger customer base who may be affected by any disruption and this would be a pity as a number are also contributing in many ways to ensure that voices are heard and required action is taken.
“We have been consistent in our message on the need to end all brutality and carry out necessary reforms. We will continue to lend our voice accordingly.”