Cyber attacks: EKEDC issues advisory to protect customers
Sopuruchi Onwuka
Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) has warned its customers of rising wave of cyber threats that comes with the increasing reliance on digital platforms for transactions and communications.
The company declared in a statement that cyber attackers have devised sophisticated techniques to exploit vulnerabilities, making cybersecurity awareness necessary for everyone.
General Manager, Corporate Communications, Babatunde Lasaki, advised customers on how to handle identified threats that include phishing attacks on emails, text messages (smishing), or phone calls.
He said attackers trick individuals into disclosing sensitive information such as account details, passwords, or payment information using deceptive messages from legitimate sources, including trusted companies or government agencies.
He also pointed at social engineering scams in which cybercriminals exploit human psychology to manipulate victims into revealing confidential information, including impersonation of EKEDC officials or posing as family members in distress to extract financial details or payments.
Others, he listed, include ransomware attacks where malicious software is used to lock users out of their devices or files, with attackers demanding a ransom to restore access.
Such attacks often occur when users unknowingly download infected files or click on malicious links, he explained.
The next, according to him, is Identity theft in which attackers steal personal information, such as National Identification Numbers (NIN), bank account details, or passwords, to impersonate victims for fraudulent activities.
He also identified credential stuffing used by hackers to exploit reused or weak passwords across multiple accounts to gain unauthorized access to systems and data.
EKEDC advised customers to adopt online safeguard measures like verification of communications by always double-checking the authenticity of emails, SMS, or calls claiming to be from the company.
Lasaki said official communications from EKEDC would never request sensitive information like passwords or PINs.
He advised customers to strengthen their password with strong, unique codes for online accounts, and also avoid using easily guessed passwords such as names, birth dates, or sequential numbers.
He also advised them to enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) by adding an extra layer of security to online accounts using MFAs that require a second form of verification in addition to your password.
He also suggested that customers update their software regularly by keeping their devices and applications updated with latest security patches.
Another measure is to avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions, warning that public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecure and can expose sensitive information to attackers.
He asked them to also be cautious with links and attachments by avoiding to click on unknown links or download unsolicited attachments which may contain malware or phishing traps.
“As part of its commitment to customer safety, EKEDC has implemented robust cybersecurity measures to protect its digital platforms. Customers are encouraged to report suspicious activity or potential scams involving EKEDC services immediately through official channels,” Lasaki stated.
