The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) recently experienced a cyberattack, disrupting access to critical national data. The breach exposed vulnerabilities in the agency’s cybersecurity infrastructure, raising concerns about the security of government databases. This incident is part of a growing trend of cyberattacks targeting African governments.
The attackers reportedly used advanced ransomware techniques, demanding payment to unlock encrypted files. The breach affected economic and social statistics essential for policymaking and business operations. Experts are urging the government to adopt more robust cybersecurity measures, including regular audits and advanced threat detection systems.
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This attack has highlighted the need for increased investment in cybersecurity across Nigeria’s public and private sectors. The Federal Government is now considering updates to the Cybercrimes Act, with provisions for stricter penalties for hackers and incentives for ethical hacking practices.
In response, the NBS is collaborating with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to investigate the breach and prevent future occurrences. This collaboration underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in safeguarding Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
The incident has also sparked a broader conversation about data sovereignty. With increasing reliance on digital platforms, there’s a growing need for local data centers and stronger data protection laws to ensure that Nigerian data remains secure and within the country.
Cybersecurity companies like Check Point and Kaspersky have offered support to strengthen the agency’s defenses. This incident serves as a wake-up call for all organizations in Nigeria to prioritize cybersecurity in their operations.
