As digital threats continue to evolve globally, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has advised Nigerians to key into innovative strategies to safeguard their digital lives. The NITDA director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, Mrs Hadiza Umar, who gave the advise in a statement, noted that as the world becomes increasingly digital, daily lives are now more connected through every day-used gadgets like phones, computers, as well as the internet.
Umar, however, noted that with this growing connection there are also growing risk from hackers, scams, and cyber threats waiting for just one careless click. NITDA used this Cybersecurity Awareness Month to remind Nigerians that cyber safety begins with individual responsibility.
Everyone has the power to protect themselves and their communities by adopting simple but effective cyber hygiene practices, including: The statement said the theme for this year, ‘Cyber Hygiene for a Safer Tomorrow,’ emphasises that cyber hygiene is not only a personal responsibility but a collective effort.
“When individuals protect themselves, they also safeguard their families, workplaces, and the broader digital community,” Umar noted. She urged that Nigerians should use strong and unique passwords for all online accounts, enabling two-factor authentication to add extra security layers, keeping devices and applications updated regularly, backing up important data frequently, avoiding suspicious links or attachments from unknown sources and thinking carefully before sharing personal or financial information online.
“As we continue to build a secure and digitally resilient Nigeria, NITDA calls on all citizens to stay alert, click wisely, and stay safe online,” she said.
