By Anthonia Efobi
The general public should beware of some mischievous scammers who have created facebook accounts claiming to be Ms. Hadiza Bala-Usman, the Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).
These scammers can patiently build up a relationship with you on social media pretending to be the legitimate user of a popular figure’s account and then use fraudulent procedures to defraud you. They will equally demand money from you and probably some assets which you may never be able to recover.
Their plan is to destroy people’s image, create bad impression of them, dub others and make way with their money or assets.
Mrs. Ifeoma Iloh, the Senior Manager Operations at Kings Communication ltd., publishers of MMS Plus newspaper, was a victim of one hacker who impersonated Bala-Usman last week, demanding N10,000 to be paid to her alleged secretary to book an appointment.
Mrs. Iloh got caught into this web whilst she was trying to genuinely book an appointment with Ms. Hadiza Bala-Usman.
See part of the conversation:
Ifeoma Iloh: Goodmorning ma, I’m sure you are good. How was your night? I presume it’s fine. Ma, a letter was sent to your office requesting for an interview from you which I wouldn’t know if you have seen. It was sent three weeks ago. Thanks, as I await your response.
Hadiza Bala Usman: call my secretary now on: 08109747192. I have talk with him.
Ifeoma Iloh: okay ma
Hadiza Bala Usman: call him now
Ifeoma Iloh: He has actually told me how to go about the booking for your interview.
Hadiza Bala Usman: Okay,, but how will I hear from you. As from next week on,, I’m always busy. So book today, and let’s meet on Saturday. Pls you need to do something on that this morning. People are much interested in your MMS, so Saturday can be okay by 10:00am.
Ifeoma Iloh: okay.
The person who claimed to be the Managing Director’s secretary later demanded N10,000 in order to book an appointment.
Please thread carefully when you chat with popular figures on social media to avoid been duped.
