The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has warned that loan apps and telemarketing companies using people’s phone numbers without consent now risk arrest and legal consequences.
In a statement released on Thursday, the telecom regulator debunked claims by telemarketers that they obtain numbers from the NCC database or SIM card registration records. The NCC said these assertions are false and violate privacy rights.
“These telemarketers also falsely claim that they obtain telecom consumers’ phone numbers from the Nigerian Communications Commission. Otherwise, they claim that the Commission gave them access to the numbers through the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Registration Database. These claims are not true,” the statement read.
The NCC cited regulations like Section 35(1) of the Consumer Code of Practice Regulations, 2007 that guarantee the protection of subscriber data. Unauthorized harvesting of phone numbers contravenes these regulations.
Experts explain that unconsented access to people’s phone numbers enables privacy violations, data misuse, fraud, identity theft, predatory lending, and breach of regulations. It erodes consumer trust and damages the reputation of companies involved.
Loan apps in Nigeria already face criticism over issues like exorbitant interest rates, aggressive collection tactics, scams and inadequate regulation. Impersonation scams are particularly distressing as fraudsters impersonate loved ones needing urgent financial assistance.
To avoid scams, experts advise caution with unsolicited calls and offers. People should verify identities, not share personal information and report suspicious activities to the authorities. With rising cases of unauthorized data harvesting, the NCC warns tough action against violators.
