Nigerians have been told to be vigilant this yuletide to avoid falling prey to cyber criminals this yuletide.This advice is coming from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), which urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against the rise in cyber scams often disguised as festive season giveaways.

This was as the Federal Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a United States of America-based organisation, DAIMLAS Corp, towards strengthening the country?s Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) sector, with the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

NITDA, in a statement at the weekend, cautioned that cybercriminals take advantage of the celebratory period by posing as legitimate companies to send fake messages promising cash rewards, giveaways or special offers.

The agency warned that victims risk revealing sensitive personal details, downloading harmful software, or even transferring money to fraudsters under false pretences.

According to NITDA, scammers often leverage the festive spirit to make their fraudulent messages appear more convincing. It explained: ?The scammers often disguise as legitimate companies and send fake messages promising cash rewards or giveaways. These messages might claim that you?ve been ?chosen? to receive money and ask you to click on a link or provide personal details.

?Under the pretence of generosity during the festive season, these scams aim to trick victims into revealing personal information, downloading malicious software or sending money.?

It, however, outlined practical steps individuals and businesses can take to protect against such scams. ?Be cautious of too-good-to-be true offers ? Always approach messages promising large cash rewards or extravagant giveaways with skepticism.?

?Verify the authenticity of offers ? Confirm promotions directly with the company?s official website or customer service channels. Avoid clicking suspicious links ? Malicious links embedded in fake messages are often used to steal data or install harmful software.

Urging citizens to safeguard their private information, added: ?Never share sensitive information such as Personal Identification Numbers (PINs), bank account details or passwords with anyone.

?Report any scam to the appropriate authorities to aid investigation and prevent further occurrences, and spread awareness among friends and family to ensure they remain cautious.?

NITDA emphasised public awareness as a key line of defence against cyber fraud, particularly during high-risk periods like the festive season. The agency reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigerians in the digital space and encouraged citizens to remain proactive in protecting their personal information.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Abuja, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, said the collaboration with DAIMLAS Corp would deploy AI to create a platform that brings together all STI resources and stakeholders in Nigeria.

He explained that the platform would also connect with Nigerians in the Diaspora and other international technology ecosystems. Outlining the benefits of the partnership, Nnaji said, ?It will help every state in Nigeria align with our national STI goals, encourage innovation by providing a place for collaboration and research.?

The Guardian reports that the platform is set to launch publicly within eight weeks of the MoU signing, accompanied by outreach efforts to engage stakeholders nationwide.

The minister, who said the partnership came at no cost to the ministry, noted that it would open doors for international partnerships, investments and growth opportunities.

?This partnership is a big step forward in strengthening Nigeria?s STI sector, which is a key part of our 2017?2030 STI Roadmap,? he said. The Director General, National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM), Dr Olusola Odusanya, remarked that what was most important in the application of AI technology is to get all different stakeholders in Nigeria and let them learn, understand and work together.

On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of DAIMLAS Corp, Joseph Wehbe, expressed excitement about the collaboration, saying, ?We are honoured to partner with FMIST to build a platform that will serve as a cornerstone for Nigeria?s scientific and technological advancements.

?Together, we will create opportunities for growth, innovation and global impact.? Wehbe said with its focus on alignment, innovation and global engagement, the partnership is poised to redefine Nigeria?s approach to STI. (The Guardian)

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