The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has denied allegations of a data breach involving sensitive information about Nigerians.
In response to these claims, NIMC reassured the public that their data remains secure and uncompromised.
The commission identified several unauthorized websites—idfinder.com.ng, Verify.ng, championtech.com.ng, trustyonline.com, and anyverify.com—as data harvesters operating without NIMC’s approval.
These websites have been flagged for collecting and possibly misusing personal data.
Concerns about data security heightened following reports on March 16, indicating that the website expressverify was monetizing the recovery of National Identification Numbers (NINs) and other personal information.
This prompted the Nigeria Data Protection Commission to increase scrutiny of NIMC licensees, ensuring strict adherence to data protection protocols.
In a public warning, NIMC cautioned against providing personal information to these unauthorized sites.
The commission emphasized its robust security measures, which comply with the ISO 27001:2013 Information Security Management System Standard, to safeguard the nation’s database.
NIMC advised Nigerians to be vigilant and avoid sharing data with unauthorized or phishing sites.
The commission reiterated its commitment to ethical standards in data protection, complying with federal directives and regulations.
Only licensed partners or vendors are authorized to verify NINs through approved channels.
They are not permitted to scan or store NIN slips.
NIMC said it is collaborating with security agencies to apprehend fraudulent individuals posing as legitimate online vendors.
It emphasized that it is dedicated to providing secure and reliable identity management services, ensuring the highest security for its systems and databases.
