Paradigm Initiative has exposed unauthorised websites selling sensitive personal and financial data of Nigerian citizens for as little as N100. This serious breach of privacy and data protection laws poses substantial risks to individuals and the national economy.
On March 16, 2024, an investigative report by Fij.ng revealed that XpressVerify.com.ng was selling personal data of Nigerian citizens. Despite the swift takedown of the site, Paradigm Initiative seeks legal redress on behalf of citizens. Further research identified AnyVerify.com.ng as another site commercialising personal data since November 2023.
Due to the severe implications for millions of Nigerians, Paradigm Initiative, through Vindich Legal, has issued a pre-action notice to several government agencies. These include the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), among others, to address this critical issue.
Here are the major concerns
Privacy Violation: Unauthorised access to personal data infringes on citizens’ privacy, leading to identity theft and financial fraud.
Economic Impact: Exposure of sensitive financial data undermines public trust in financial institutions, risking a financial crisis.
National Security: Breached data, including driver’s licences, can be exploited for unlawful activities, compromising national security.
Legal and Ethical Implications: Highlights gaps in data protection and cybersecurity, underscoring the need for robust laws and enforcement.
The Nigerian government is urged to
Investigate illegal online activities.
Enhance cybersecurity measures.
Implement and enforce Nigeria’s Data Protection Act.
Raise public awareness on data protection.
Court Reliefs Sought
Declaration of unauthorised data access as a constitutional violation.
Mandate for government agencies to secure citizens’ data.
Full investigation and publication of the data breach report.
Public release of information on agency activities.
Compensation for affected data subjects.
Call to Action
All stakeholders, including government, financial institutions, and civil society, must collaborate to address this crisis. Protecting Nigerian citizens’ personal information is crucial to restoring trust and ensuring data security.
Paradigm Initiative (PIN)
Paradigm Initiative connects under-served young Africans with digital opportunities and protects their rights. Operating since 2007 in Nigeria and 2017 across Africa, PIN has impacted over 150,000 youth through its digital inclusion and rights programs. PIN also provides safe online platforms for reporting digital rights violations.